Touareg Transmission Emergency: Rough Shifts & Grinding

Had similar symptoms on a 2020 VW Arteon with the automatic transmission. The gearbox sensor readings were inconsistent, and the transmission started showing the exact same behavior, rough shifts followed by emergency mode activation. Initially thought it was just a transmission sensor malfunction, but diagnostic testing revealed the gearbox oil level was critically low. The transmission oil sensor was giving false readings due to insufficient fluid coverage. The repair required a complete transmission fluid flush, new filter, and replacement of a leaking transmission oil cooler line that caused the fluid loss. This was indeed a serious issue since running low on transmission fluid can cause permanent internal damage to the transmission. The symptoms match perfectly, rough shifting, grinding sounds, and emergency mode are classic signs of low transmission fluid or a failing oil sensor in VW models. Would strongly recommend having both the fluid level and transmission sensors checked, as these components work together in monitoring transmission health. Since your vehicle shows identical warning signs, getting it diagnosed properly is crucial before any major transmission damage occurs. The transmission issues you describe typically start with either sensor failures or fluid-related problems in these powertrains.

Thanks for sharing that detailed experience with the transmission repair. The symptoms really do match what I am seeing with my Touareg. Can you remember roughly how much you ended up paying for the complete fix? Also wondering if you had any recurring issues since the repair was done? My local VW service quoted around 1200€ just for diagnostics and basic transmission oil service, which seems quite steep. Your insight about the cooler line leak is especially helpful, will make sure they inspect that carefully.

Just wanted to update, the total repair cost came to 365€, which covered fixing both the faulty transmission oil temperature sensor and correcting the low gearbox oil level. Much more reasonable than your quoted price. Since having these transmission issues fixed properly, the car has been running perfectly with no recurring problems. The transmission shifts smoothly now, and all warning lights have stayed off. The emergency mode hasnt activated once since the repair. Looking at your 1200€ quote, that seems excessive considering my repair experience. A proper diagnostic check and transmission oil service shouldnt cost anywhere near that much. Definitely worth getting a second opinion, especially since you know the likely culprits now, either low fluid levels or sensor problems. The key was catching these transmission issues early before they could cause more serious damage to the gearbox components. When the transmission oil levels are wrong, it can quickly escalate from minor shifting problems to major mechanical failures.

Thanks everyone for the helpful insights. After checking several shops, I finally got it properly diagnosed and fixed. Total repair bill came to 450€, much better than that initial 1200€ quote. The mechanic found a faulty transmission oil temperature sensor and a small leak in the transmission cooler line, just like mentioned. They replaced both parts, did a complete transmission fluid flush, and installed a new filter. The grinding noise and rough gear shifting completely stopped after the repair. Been driving for two weeks now without any warning lights or emergency mode activation. The transmission runs smooth again, just like when the car was new. Really glad I got a second opinion instead of paying that first expensive quote. The shop also showed me the old leaking parts and explained how low transmission oil levels can wreak havoc on these modern transmissions. Definitely learned to take these transmission issues seriously and get them checked early before major damage happens.