100% Free

No Scanner Needed

Carly logo

maja_schubert7

Seat Alhambra transfer case limp mode

My 2000 Seat Alhambra with a gasoline engine (mileage 62461 km) has gone into transfer case limp mode. The gearbox is slipping and shifting uncleanly. I've read online that the problem might be consequential faults stemming from possible ABS problems. Could this be the case? Has anyone experienced something similar? Any advice before I start tearing things apart?

4 comment(s)

romyschmid8

That sounds frustrating. Slipping gears and limp mode are never good. Since you suspect the ABS, let's consider this. Modern car systems are interconnected. A faulty ABS sensor can cause cascading issues because the car's computer uses ABS data for traction control, stability control, and even gear selection. Fault codes would be helpful. Have you pulled any diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) from the car's computer? The gear selector position might be worth checking; sometimes a faulty sensor there can mimic transmission problems. The torque converter lock-up clutch could also be a factor, but investigating the ABS system first seems right. Can you share any fault codes?

maja_schubert7 (Author)

Thanks for the response. That makes sense about the interconnected systems. I got some fault codes read. There were ABS-related codes (I don't remember the numbers), and a code related to 'implausible signal' from a wheel speed sensor. What kind of sensor tweaking are you talking about? Should I try cleaning or replacing the sensor?

romyschmid8

An 'implausible signal' from a wheel speed sensor points towards ABS as the problem. Sensor tweaking means checking the sensor's physical connection, cleaning debris, and ensuring it's seated properly. Replacing the sensor is an option if cleaning doesn't work. Given the ABS fault codes and wheel speed sensor error, that's likely the cause. Before replacing parts, take the Alhambra to a workshop with diagnostic equipment to fully check the ABS system and pinpoint the exact cause. It could be more than a faulty sensor; there could be wiring issues or a problem with the ABS pump.

maja_schubert7 (Author)

Just reporting back. A mechanic ran a full diagnostic. It was indeed a strange ABS problem causing all the other issues. They cleared fault codes, tweaked a sensor, and the transfer case limp mode is gone. The gearbox shifts smoothly again. The repair was 0€ because it was fixed by resetting. Thanks for the guidance; I thought it would be an expensive gearbox rebuild.

Join the discussion now: