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Skoda Citigo Automatic Transmission Issues

I'm at my wit's end with my 2020 Skoda Citigo with a gasoline engine! It has 53853 km on the clock. Recently, the check engine light and the transmission indicator light have both come on. The automatic gearbox is slipping and shifting really uncleanly, almost like it's struggling to find the right gear. I also hear grinding noises sometimes when it shifts. To top it all off, there's a noticeable engine surge at times! I took it to a local garage, and they said there's an error stored in the error memory pointing to a possible automatic transmission converter failure. Has anyone experienced anything similar? Any ideas about transmission repair or the converter failure?

4 comment(s)

That sounds suspiciously familiar! I had a similar issue with my Skoda Octavia, although the symptoms manifested slightly differently. The engine surge you described, coupled with the unclean shifting, points towards a potential torque converter failure. The error codes stored in the memory would be very helpful in isolating the root cause. Have you checked the ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) level and condition? Low or burnt fluid can also cause similar symptoms. Also, have you scanned the TCM (Transmission Control Module) for any specific DTCs (Diagnostic Trouble Codes)?

Thanks for the quick response! I did check the ATF level, and it seemed okay, although I didn't specifically check the condition. I'm not sure how to scan the TCM for DTCs – is that something I can do with a standard OBD2 scanner, or do I need specialized equipment? Also, what do you mean by 'engine surge'? I notice a slight hesitation sometimes when accelerating.

Okay, so the engine surge is that slight 'push' or inconsistent acceleration you are experiencing. A standard OBD2 scanner might read generic transmission codes, but for detailed TCM diagnostics, you ideally need a scanner that can access manufacturer-specific codes. Given the symptoms and the garage's initial diagnosis, a defective torque converter is highly probable. Continuing to drive it in this condition could cause further damage to the automatic transmission. I would recommend taking it to a reputable automatic gearbox specialist for a proper diagnostic assessment before initiating any transmission repair. They can confirm the converter failure and provide a more accurate cost estimate.

Just wanted to let you know, I took your advice and brought it to a trusted mechanic. It was indeed the torque converter. The total transmission repair cost me about 2120€. A hefty sum, but at least my Citigo is back on the road and shifting smoothly again. Thanks again for your help and insight!

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