SQ8 Transmission Nightmare: Stuck in Park & Won't Start

I had a very similar transmission issue with my 2021 Q7 last winter, and having some experience with automatic transmission problems, I can share my repair journey. The symptoms matched yours exactly, shifting problems, transmission sensor errors, and the shift lock system acting up. After the check engine light came on, the transmission would not properly engage park position. The workshop ran a complete transmission diagnostic which revealed the root cause: a defective control unit affecting the entire transmission system. Once they identified this, the repair was straightforward but required specialized equipment for reprogramming the new unit. Total repair cost was 1000 Euro, which included: Diagnostic testing, Control unit replacement, Reprogramming, System testing Before I can provide more specific guidance about your situation, could you share: Current mileage, Any warning messages on the dash, Specific error codes from your scan, Whether this started suddenly or developed gradually These transmission issues often have similar symptoms but different root causes. The more details you can provide, the better we can determine if your problem matches what I experienced with my automatic transmission repair.

Just had my latest service done last week at 77627 KM and they found the root of these transmission issues. The shift lock problem turned out to be caused by a faulty transmission sensor, not a complete transmission failure like I initially feared. The mechanic found the gear linkage was still in good condition. After replacing the sensor and recalibrating the control module, everything works perfectly now. The repair cost was much lower than expected at 280 Euro for parts and labor. I suggest getting a proper diagnostic check. In my case, what seemed like major transmission issues was resolved without extensive repairs. Hope this helps narrow down your problem.

Thanks for sharing your repair outcome. My Q7 transmission sensor replacement experience was more complex than yours, involving a full control unit replacement. Interesting how similar symptoms led to different root causes, yours being isolated to just the sensor while mine required more extensive work. Looking back at both our cases, the key symptoms of gear shifter problems and park position issues were identical, but the neutral position engagement differed. My automatic transmission needed that full control module swap, while your simpler sensor fix solved it, despite both having similar error codes and issues with the park brake engagement. The 280 Euro repair cost is great news compared to my 1000 Euro bill. This really shows why proper diagnostics are crucial, what looks like major transmission failure can sometimes be fixed with targeted sensor replacement and recalibration. For anyone else reading with similar symptoms, this reinforces getting a proper diagnosis rather than assuming worst-case scenarios. The parking position problems and shifting issues could stem from various components in the transmission system.

Thanks everyone for the helpful replies. Wanted to close the loop on my automatic transmission problems that I initially posted about. After getting it properly diagnosed, turns out the gear shifter issues were caused by a failed transmission sensor combined with a minor electrical fault. The workshop found the transmission failure warnings were triggered by this faulty sensor, not actual mechanical problems. They replaced the sensor, recalibrated the system, and cleared the error codes. Total repair came to 450 Euro including parts and labor. The gear shifter now smoothly engages all positions including park brake function. The check engine light is off and the automatic transmission shifts perfectly again. Much better outcome than initially feared when the transmission issues first appeared. Really appreciate all the advice about getting proper diagnostics done rather than assuming the worst. Saved me from potentially unnecessary major repairs.