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friedrichmond5

SQ5 Trans Warning: Rough Shifts Signal Service Need

My SQ5 auto transmission is acting weird lately. Shifts feel rough and unpredictable, and the transmission warning light just came on. Car went into some kind of emergency mode. Running a 2018 model with 28421 km, gas engine. Suspect transmission oil might need replacement since previous mechanic visit was not great. Anyone dealt with similar transmission problems? Looking for advice before picking a shop for repairs.

4 comment(s)

wolfgang_peters4

Having experienced similar transmission performance issues on my 2015 Audi S4, I can relate to these symptoms. The emergency mode and rough shifting often indicate a transmission control module undervoltage condition, which I encountered last service visit. The automatic transmission behavior you describe matches what happened in my case, irregular shift patterns and warning lights. Initially thought it was just transmission oil, but diagnostic tests revealed more complex electrical issues affecting the transmission control unit. The fix required: Full transmission control module inspection, Replacement of voltage regulator, Transmission flush with new fluid, Reset of adaptation values This was definitely a serious issue requiring immediate attention, as continuing to drive risks permanent transmission damage. The car transmission symptoms you describe strongly suggest electronic control problems rather than just fluid-related issues. The emergency mode is actually a protective measure to prevent transmission damage. Would strongly suggest getting it checked soon, as these symptoms on Audi performance models typically indicate system protection has already activated. A proper diagnosis is essential, transmission problems can cascade if the root electrical cause isnt addressed properly.

friedrichmond5 (Author)

Thanks for sharing your S4 experience. My SQ5 got fixed with similar symptoms last month. Main culprit was low hydraulic fluid causing the slipping transmission, but the shop also found worn transmission solenoids during inspection. Can you recall the total repair cost for your fixes? My bill came close to 1200 Euro for parts and labor, wondering if thats in line with what others paid. Also curious if youve had any transmission issues since the repair?

wolfgang_peters4

After the mechanic diagnosed my S4 transmission problems last year, the bill came to 240 Euro for fixing the undervoltage issue. The automatic gearbox is running perfectly since then, with no rough shifting or warning lights. The transmission oil replacement was actually covered under the service plan, which helped keep costs down. Unlike your case with worn solenoids, my transmission flush and electrical fix resolved all symptoms. The transmission control module just needed proper voltage regulation to function correctly. Having driven over 15000km since the repair, the automatic transmission performs like new with crisp, clean shifts. Your 1200 Euro repair sounds reasonable considering the additional mechanical work needed on the solenoids. Transmission problems can vary significantly in complexity and cost, especially when both electrical and hydraulic components require attention.

friedrichmond5 (Author)

Thanks for the feedback. After putting off the repair for a few weeks, I finally took my SQ5 to the shop last month. The automatic transmission definitely needed attention, turns out low hydraulic fluid was causing most issues. During the inspection they also found those worn solenoids needed replacing. Total bill hit 1200 Euro which seemed steep, but the transmission flush plus new parts and labor adds up. The mechanic explained how the solenoids control fluid flow and pressure in the automatic gearbox, so replacing them was crucial. Really glad I got it fixed when I did. The car shifts perfectly now, no more rough changes or warning lights. The transmission operates exactly like it should. Lesson learned about not delaying when transmission problems first appear. Just wanted to close this thread and update everyone who provided advice. Thanks for helping point me in the right direction with this repair.

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