VW Caddy's Grinding Trans Points to Converter Failure

Had similar issues with my VW Golf 1999 automatic transmission. The symptoms match exactly what I experienced, rough gear changes, grinding noises, and warning lights. The torque converter was indeed failing, causing transmission fluid contamination throughout the system. The automatic gearbox needed major work. The converter fault diagnosis was correct in my case, as metal particles from the deteriorating torque converter had spread through the transmission fluid. This required: Complete transmission fluid flush, Torque converter replacement, Solenoid pack inspection and cleaning, New transmission filter, New gasket set This was a serious repair job that took several days to complete. The engine surge and rough shifting stopped completely after the fix. The transmission warning light never came back on. These symptoms typically indicate converter failure rather than a simple clutch problem. Delaying repairs risks more extensive automatic transmission damage. Would strongly recommend getting it fixed, as continuing to drive with these symptoms will likely lead to complete transmission failure.

Thanks for sharing that experience. It really hits close to home since I faced an identical automatic transmission issue with my Caddy last year. The symptoms were spot on, jerky shifts and that concerning grinding noise. Quick question, can you recall roughly how much you ended up paying for the full repair? And has everything stayed smooth with your transmission since the fix? My mechanic is quoting a hefty sum for the torque converter replacement and system flush, so trying to gauge if the price is fair.

Just wanted to follow up, after dealing with that automatic transmission nightmare on my Golf, I bit the bullet and paid 2120€ for the complete repair job. The mechanic confirmed it was indeed the torque converter lock-up clutch that had failed, exactly as diagnosed. The automatic gearbox has been running perfectly since the fix, no more grinding sounds, jerky shifts, or warning lights. It was a hefty investment but absolutely worth it to prevent total converter failure, which would have been even more expensive. The repair resolved all the transmission issues completely. Looking back, waiting longer would have likely caused more damage to the automatic transmission components. The transmission fluid flush also revealed metal particles from the failing converter, confirming the diagnosis was spot on. Going on 18 months now with zero transmission problems. The shifts are butter smooth, and the car drives like new. Given the extensive work needed when dealing with torque converter issues, your mechanics quote sounds in line with what I paid.

Finally took my Caddy to the shop last week after getting great advice here. The mechanic confirmed it was indeed the torque converter causing all those transmission problems. Ended up paying 2350€ for the complete job including: New torque converter, Full transmission fluid flush, Filter replacement, Labor costs The automatic transmission is now shifting like a dream. No more grinding sounds or warning lights. The lock-up clutch engages perfectly, and the whole driving experience is smooth again. Best part? The mechanic showed me the old torque converter parts and the contaminated transmission fluid, definitely confirmed this was the right call. Would have faced a complete transmission failure if I had waited longer. Now 2 weeks in and everything works perfectly. While the repair cost was substantial, it was worth every cent to have my reliable Caddy back. Really glad I got this fixed before the converter fault caused more extensive damage.