VW Bora Won't Start Due to Neutral Sensor Fault

Had similar transmission issues on a 2007 VW Passat 2.0 TSI. The symptoms match what I encountered, rough shifting, no-start condition, and check engine light with neutral position sensor fault code. The root cause was a failing shift lock solenoid combined with a defective transmission control unit. These components work together to verify the transmission position and allow starting. When either fails, the car implements a safety lockout preventing engine start. In my case, it required: Replacing the shift lock solenoid assembly, Installing a new transmission control module, Reprogramming the replacement unit, Recalibrating the neutral position sensor This was a serious repair requiring specialized diagnostic equipment. The transmission itself was mechanically sound, the problem was electrical/electronic. The no-start condition is actually a safety feature preventing potential transmission damage. Recommend having it diagnosed at a shop with VW-specific diagnostic capabilities. The transmission issues you describe, combined with the sensor fault and no-start condition, strongly suggest a similar control system failure rather than internal transmission failure. Make sure to check the basic items first though, battery voltage and transmission fluid level/condition. These can sometimes trigger similar symptoms.

Thanks for sharing those details about your Passat transmission repair. I had nearly identical issues with my VW Bora last winter, the gear linkage problems, rough shifting, and that frustrating no-start situation. The transmission sensor replacement fixed everything for me, along with a new shift lock mechanism. Just curious, what did the total repair cost end up being for you? And has the transmission given you any more trouble since getting it fixed? Mine has been running smoothly but always good to hear about long-term reliability from others who went through similar repairs.

Since having the transmission repair done on my Passat, the automatic transmission has performed flawlessly. The parking position defective warning completely disappeared after replacing the faulty control unit, which cost 1000€ including programming and labor. The gear linkage and transmission sensor issues were actually symptoms of the control unit failure, rather than separate problems. Getting the control unit replaced resolved all the shifting irregularities and starting problems at once. To address your question about long-term reliability, its been over a year now with no transmission failure warnings or shifting problems. The neutral position sensor readings have remained stable, and the transmission shifts smoothly through all gears. Regular transmission fluid changes should help maintain this reliability. The repair was definitely worth the investment since it prevented potential damage to the transmission internals. When these electronic control issues are caught early, they rarely lead to mechanical transmission failure.

After getting that frustrating no-start and rough shifting problem with my Bora, I finally took it to a transmission specialist. The total repair came to 850€, covering the shift lock replacement and transmission sensor work. Much better than the 2500€ quote I got from the first mechanic who wanted to rebuild the whole transmission. The gear linkage was actually fine, just needed the electronic components sorted. Been driving it for 6 months now without any transmission issues. The neutral position sensor readings are normal and shifting is smooth again. Really glad I got a second opinion instead of going for unnecessary major transmission repair work. Keeping the maintenance schedule now and checking transmission fluid levels regularly. Definitely learned my lesson about addressing these electronic control unit problems early before they can cause real transmission failure.