VW Fox Transmission Failure: Starting & Shifting Issues

I had a similar transmission failure issue with my 2008 VW Polo diesel last year. With some experience working on VWs, I recognized the symptoms you described right away. The transmission sensor malfunction initially caused erratic shifting behavior and eventually triggered the check engine light. After multiple diagnostic scans, the workshop confirmed a defective control unit was causing the shift lock system to malfunction, preventing proper gear engagement. The repair involved replacing the faulty control unit and recalibrating the transmission sensor system. Total repair cost came to 1000€, including parts and labor. The workshop needed about 2 days to complete the work, but the car has been running perfectly since. Before providing more specific advice, could you share: Current mileage on your Fox, Whether you notice any unusual sounds when shifting, If the park brake engages normally, When the transmission issues first started, Any previous transmission repairs These details would help determine if your issue matches what I experienced. The symptoms you describe are quite similar to my case, suggesting it could be the same underlying problem with the control unit.

Thanks for sharing your experience. My Fox has 15842km since my latest service. Since you mentioned the shift lock system, I checked, and unlike your case, my park brake still engages normally with no unusual sounds. But the automatic transmission definitely shows the same erratic behavior you described with the gear linkage acting up. The weird thing is I have not had any transmission repairs before this issue started. This makes me think replacing the transmission sensor and control unit might be the solution, especially given the similar symptoms. Good to know about the 1000€ cost estimate, helps with planning the repair budget.

Thanks for providing those extra details about your Fox. The normal park brake operation is actually a good sign, as it narrows down the potential issues. With your relatively low mileage since the last service, the transmission failure symptoms you're experiencing match what I dealt with, specifically the erratic automatic transmission behavior. In my case, the gear linkage problems were directly tied to the transmission sensor malfunction. The workshop first tried recalibrating the existing sensor, but ultimately the control unit needed replacement to fully resolve the transmission failure. Since you have no previous transmission repairs, there's a good chance you're looking at a similar fix to what I needed. The 1000€ repair cost I mentioned included both parts and labor, but prices can vary. The important thing is addressing it promptly, I learned that continuing to drive with faulty transmission sensors can lead to more extensive damage. One recommendation based on my experience: when you take it to the workshop, ask them to specifically check the neutral position switch as well. In my case, this component was also showing wear and contributed to the shifting issues.

The normal park brake function on my Fox is a relief, and I appreciate your detailed comparison to your repair experience. While my 15842km reading is fairly low, these transmission issues are definitely concerning, especially since I have never needed transmission repairs before. The gear linkage problems and erratic shifting match closely with what you described. Your suggestion about checking the neutral position switch makes a lot of sense, and I will definitely mention this to the workshop during the inspection. The 1000€ estimate gives me a realistic budget target for the potential sensor and control unit replacement. I plan to get it to the workshop this week since you mentioned how continuing to drive with transmission failure symptoms could cause more damage. Will make sure they do a thorough check of the shift lock system and transmission sensor setup. Thanks for sharing such specific details about your repair, it really helps knowing what to expect.