VW Phaeton Transmission Grinding & Slipping Issues Fix

I had a very similar issue with my 2012 VW Passat with the automatic transmission. Based on my experience dealing with transmission problems, I can share some relevant insights. The symptoms you describe, grinding sounds, transmission warning lights, and slipping between gears, match exactly what I experienced. The torque converter was diagnosed as defective, causing significant converter fault codes and poor shifting performance. After trying some basic fixes like transmission fluid changes, the workshop confirmed a complete torque converter failure. The repair involved replacing the entire torque converter assembly. Total cost was 2120€, including parts and labor. After the repair, all shifting problems and engine surge issues were completely resolved. For a more accurate comparison with your situation, could you provide: Current mileage, Transmission service history, Specific error codes stored, Whether the transmission fluid has been recently checked or changed, If the problems occur more when the engine is cold or warm These details would help determine if your clutch problem is similar to what I encountered and whether you might be looking at a comparable repair solution. Since automatic transmission issues can stem from various causes, having these details would help narrow down if your converter fault matches the symptoms I experienced.

Last service was done at 55000km and currently showing 60880km. The error codes you mentioned are identical to what my scan showed. Based on the quoted repair costs, that helps with planning. My mechanic offered a full torque converter replacement for 1950€, which seems in line with your experience. Good to hear the transmission repair fully resolved your shifting and engine surge issues. Did you notice any improvement in fuel economy after the converter failure was fixed? Mine has been using noticeably more fuel lately, likely due to the faulty lock-up clutch not engaging properly. Think I will proceed with the torque converter replacement given our matching symptoms. Thanks for confirming the repair approach and sharing the cost reference.

Thanks for those details about your mileage and service history. After my automatic transmission repair was completed, I did notice about a 10-15% improvement in fuel consumption. The faulty lock-up clutch was definitely impacting efficiency before the fix. The 1950€ quote for your transmission repair sounds reasonable compared to what I paid. My workshop explained that when the torque converter fails, it often causes excess friction and heat, which leads to that increased fuel usage you mentioned. Just make sure they do a full transmission fluid flush when installing the new converter. In my case, some debris from the failing clutch had contaminated the fluid. The fresh fluid after repair helped ensure smooth shifting and proper lock-up clutch engagement. One tip: after my repair, I let the transmission warm up for a few minutes before driving aggressively. This helped protect the new components during the break-in period. The engine surge disappeared completely within the first 100km of driving. Given our identical symptoms and error codes, replacing the torque converter should resolve your transmission issues just as effectively as it did mine.

Thanks for the helpful details about the post-repair fuel savings. The 10-15% improvement really helps justify the 1950€ repair cost. My current fuel consumption has definitely taken a hit from this transmission problem. I will make sure to request the transmission fluid flush with the new converter installation. Good point about potential debris from the failing lock-up clutch contaminating the system. Will also follow your advice about gentle break-in driving to protect the new components. Since our converter fault symptoms and diagnostic codes match so closely, I feel more confident proceeding with the torque converter replacement. The grinding and transmission warning lights are getting worse, so best to fix it before causing additional automatic gearbox damage. Will schedule the repair next week. Really appreciate you sharing your experience, it helped confirm this is the right solution for my clutch problem.