gretahofmann6
VW Lupo Auto Trans Failure, Service History Key Issue
Summary of the thread
The conversation centers on a VW Lupo experiencing automatic transmission issues, characterized by rough shifting and warning lights, possibly due to worn-out transmission oil. The problem was diagnosed as degraded transmission oil with metal particles, indicating internal wear. Suggested solutions included stopping driving immediately, towing the car to a transmission specialist, and performing a full diagnostic and system flush. Following these steps, the transmission was repaired successfully, preventing further damage and restoring smooth operation.
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4 comment(s)
gretahofmann6 (community.author)
Thanks for sharing your experience with similar transmission issues. The symptoms and repair steps you described match what I am seeing with my Lupo. The transmission performance has definitely gotten worse over the last few weeks. Can you remember roughly how much you ended up paying for the complete repair of your automatic gearbox? And has the transmission been working properly since the fix, or have you noticed any other problems? I will definitely take your advice about using proper hydraulic fluid and getting it to a specialist. Just trying to budget for what might be coming.
marcoschmitz1
Since getting my Polo fixed, the automatic transmission has been working flawlessly. The mechanic confirmed my transmission problems stemmed from worn out transmission oil and an electrical undervoltage issue affecting the control module. The total repair came to 240€, which covered: Fresh transmission oil, Transmission flush service, Electrical system diagnostic, Control module reset This was much less expensive than I initially feared, especially compared to a full transmission rebuild. The automatic gearbox now shifts smoothly again, and all warning lights have stayed off. Getting it fixed early likely prevented more serious transmission damage. My advice would be to get your Lupo checked soon. Based on the similar symptoms, you might be looking at comparable repair costs if caught early enough. The key is addressing these transmission issues before internal components sustain permanent damage.
gretahofmann6 (community.author)
I took my Lupo to a transmission specialist last week after reading the advice here. The diagnosis confirmed my concerns about the automatic gearbox, they found degraded transmission oil full of metal particles. The transmission flush and repairs cost me 320€ total, covering: Complete transmission oil change, System flush, New filter, Computer diagnostic, Control module reset The hydraulic fluid was in worse shape than expected, but thankfully no major internal damage had occurred yet. The mechanic explained that catching it early prevented a much more expensive transmission rebuild. After the service, my car shifts perfectly again and the warning lights are gone. The automatic transmission feels completely different, smooth and responsive like when the car was newer. Really glad I addressed this before it turned into a bigger problem. Thanks again for the helpful advice about getting it checked by a specialist. The repair cost was manageable and definitely worth it to prevent total transmission failure.
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VW
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LUPO
marcoschmitz1
I experienced similar transmission problems with my 2006 VW Polo TDI. The symptoms match what you describe, rough shifting and transmission warning lights pointing to serious transmission issues. The automatic transmission going into limp mode is often caused by low transmission oil levels or degraded fluid quality. When this happened to my car, the mechanic found metal particles in the old transmission oil, indicating internal wear. The repair involved: Complete transmission oil replacement, New transmission filter, Transmission control module recalibration, Replacement of worn solenoids This was a serious repair that required specialized diagnostic equipment. The transmission problems were caught early enough to prevent complete transmission failure, which would have required a full rebuild or replacement. For your Lupo, given the age and mileage, recommend: 1. Stop driving immediately to prevent further damage 2. Have it towed to a transmission specialist 3. Request a full transmission diagnostic 4. Get a detailed inspection of the valve body and solenoids 5. Insist on using the correct VW-specified transmission fluid A slipping transmission combined with warning lights typically indicates this needs immediate attention. Make sure to get a written estimate and explanation of all recommended work before authorizing repairs.