VW Lupo's Failing Clutch and Torque Converter Issues

Had similar symptoms with my 2007 VW Polo 1.9 TDI. The automatic transmission started making grinding noises during gear changes and the transmission warning lights came on. The lock-up clutch in the torque converter was indeed failing, causing engine surge between gears. The converter fault diagnosis showed metal particles in the transmission fluid, indicating internal wear. The repair involved removing the transmission, replacing the torque converter assembly, and installing a new valve body. This was necessary since the failing lock-up clutch had contaminated the entire system. The job took 4 days at the shop since they needed to completely flush the transmission to remove all metal debris. A simple fluid change would not have fixed this, the converter needed replacement to prevent total transmission failure. Based on your symptoms and mileage, sounds like you have the same problem. The grinding and sloppy shifting are classic signs of a failing torque converter. Given the age of your Lupo, recommend getting it checked soon before more damage occurs. This kind of automatic transmission issue only gets worse if left unaddressed.

Thanks for sharing that detailed experience with your Polo transmission repair. It really helps since my Lupo has such similar automatic gearbox problems. Those grinding noises and rough shifts are driving me crazy. Just wondering, can you recall roughly what the total transmission repair cost was for your converter failure? Also curious if you had any other issues pop up since getting it fixed? My mechanic quoted a pretty high price but I want to make sure its reasonable given the work needed. Sounds like catching it early before the clutch problem causes complete auto transmission breakdown is key. Trying to avoid having metal fragments destroy the whole system like you mentioned.

Got my Polo back from the mechanic last month after fixing the automatic transmission torque converter lock-up clutch issue. Total cost came to 2120€ for the complete repair job, including parts and labor. The price covered replacing the converter assembly and complete system flush. Happy to report the transmission now shifts smoothly with no grinding or slipping. The warning lights cleared up right after the repair and haven't returned. No other transmission issues have surfaced since the fix. The automatic gearbox feels like new again. Worth every cent to get it done properly rather than risk total converter failure. The metal debris from a failing lock-up clutch can destroy the entire transmission if left too long. Getting the repair done at the first signs of trouble saved me from needing a full transmission replacement. Your mechanic's quote actually sounds about right considering the extensive work needed for this type of automatic transmission repair. Better to fix it now while the damage is still contained.

After getting several opinions, I finally took my Lupo to a transmission specialist last week. The mechanic confirmed the automatic gearbox had a failing torque converter, just as suspected. The lock-up clutch was shot, causing those awful grinding noises during shifts. The repair took 5 days total, they had to remove the transmission, replace the converter assembly, and flush the whole system to clear out metal debris. Cost came to 2350€, which hurt the wallet but was necessary to prevent complete converter failure. Got the car back yesterday and the difference is incredible. The automatic transmission shifts smoothly now, warning lights are gone, and no more grinding sounds. The mechanic showed me the old parts, the lock-up clutch was completely worn out. Really glad I got it fixed before the metal fragments could cause more extensive damage. Thanks everyone for helping diagnose the issue. Definitely saved me from a much costlier repair by catching the converter fault early.