VW Bora Trans Issues Point to Bad Torque Converter

I had a similar issue with my VW Golf (2006) with the automatic transmission. Having worked on a few cars over the years, I have some experience with transmission problems. The symptoms you describe match what I encountered, transmission warning lights, rough shifting, and that distinctive grinding noise. The converter fault turned out to be the root cause, specifically the torque converter lock-up clutch had failed. My mechanic performed several diagnostic tests including: Complete transmission fluid analysis, Electronic transmission control module scan, Pressure testing of the torque converter The full repair involved: Removing the transmission, Installing a new torque converter, Replacing transmission fluid and filter, Reprogramming the transmission control unit Total cost was 2120€ including parts and labor. The repair resolved all issues and the transmission has worked flawlessly since. Before proceeding further, could you share: Current mileage, Transmission fluid service history, Specific error codes stored, Whether the problems occur more when cold or at operating temperature This information would help determine if your situation matches what I experienced with the converter failure and whether similar repair steps would be appropriate.

Last service was done at 69000km and currently showing stored error codes P0741 and P2769. These point directly to torque converter issues and match my symptoms. The transmission repair quote I received seems high at 2350€, but reading your experience with a similar converter failure makes me feel better about proceeding. The grinding noise gets worse when the transmission is warm, particularly during shifts from 2nd to 3rd gear. My workshop suggests complete torque converter replacement rather than trying a partial repair, based on your feedback, this seems like the right approach for a lasting fix.

Thanks for sharing those error codes, they definitely confirm what we both experienced with our VWs. P0741 and P2769 are classic indicators of converter fault issues, and the symptoms match exactly what I went through with my Golf's automatic gearbox. The 2350€ quote is actually in line with what I paid (2120€), considering parts costs have increased lately. A complete torque converter replacement is absolutely the right call, partial repairs on the auto transmission components often lead to recurring issues down the line. The grinding noise getting worse when warm was identical to my situation. In my case, the converter failure was affecting the transmission fluid pressure, which became more noticeable at operating temperature. After the repair, that characteristic 2nd to 3rd gear grinding completely disappeared. Based on my post-repair experience, you should notice: Smoother gear changes, No more warning lights, Quieter operation, Better fuel efficiency If you go ahead with the repair, make sure they also: Replace the transmission fluid, Clean the transmission cooler, Update the transmission control module if available The transmission repair resolved all issues on my Golf, and it has been running perfectly for 40000km since the fix.

The diagnostic codes P0741 and P2769 match exactly what I was experiencing. Hearing about your successful repair with such similar symptoms gives me confidence to proceed. The workshop estimate of 2350€ seemed high at first, but knowing you paid 2120€ for the same torque converter replacement makes it more reasonable. My symptoms are identical, especially that grinding noise between 2nd and 3rd gear when warm. The lock-up clutch failure seems to be a common automatic gearbox issue with these models. I will go ahead with the complete transmission repair including the new converter, fluid change, and control module updates you suggested. I appreciate you confirming the diagnosis and sharing the detailed repair process. Will schedule the work next week and make sure they follow all the recommended steps for the torque converter replacement. Good to know your transmission has been running smoothly since the fix, hoping for similar results with mine.