VW Polo Transmission Jerks: Faulty Transfer Case Alert

Faced similar symptoms on my VW Golf TDI (2013) when the ABS sensor started failing. The fault codes initially pointed to the transfer case, but diagnostics revealed the ABS sensor was corrupting signals to multiple systems. The symptoms match exactly: rough shifting, unresponsive transmission, and the system defaulting to limp home mode. The traction control system gets false readings, which triggers transmission safety protocols. The repair required: Full diagnostic scan, ABS sensor replacement, System recalibration, Clearing all consequential fault codes It turned out to be a serious issue since bad ABS signals can affect multiple systems: transmission control, stability management, and gear selector behavior. The faulty sensor tricks the car into thinking there are major mechanical problems. Before replacing expensive transmission parts, have a specialist check the ABS system thoroughly. These electrical faults often masquerade as mechanical transfer case issues. The gear selector problems usually resolve once the root cause is fixed.

Thanks for sharing that solution with the ABS sensor. I had a similar powertrain malfunction with my 2016 Polo last winter. The diagnostic trouble codes also pointed to transmission problems initially. The control module kept throwing transfer case errors which had me really worried about repair costs. Did you happen to remember the total cost for your ABS sensor fix? My torque converter ended up being fine and it was just the sensor replacement plus labor, but curious how costs compare. Also wondering if youve had any repeat issues since getting it sorted?

Happy to report my ABS sensor repair worked out perfectly with 0€ cost since it was covered under extended drivetrain warranty. After clearing those powertrain malfunction codes and replacing the sensor, all the transfer case warnings disappeared completely. The transmission has been shifting smoothly for over a year now with no limp mode issues returning. The gear selector moves freely and all those false warnings about the transfer case have stayed gone. The mechanic explained that faulty ABS sensors frequently trigger these cascade of error codes that can be really misleading. It was a relief avoiding major transmission work. Once they fixed the actual root cause with the ABS system, all those consequential fault codes cleared up on their own. The diagnostic process was thorough but straightforward once they knew what to look for.

Thanks for that detailed feedback. Just got back from the mechanic and wanted to share my resolution. The total repair came to 320€ including parts and labor. The control module was getting confused by the faulty sensor signals, triggering those transmission warnings. The diagnostic trouble codes cleared after they replaced the sensor and recalibrated the system. Been driving for a week now and the gear selector works perfectly. No more rough shifting or limp home mode. The traction control is also working normally again. Big relief it wasnt the torque converter or transfer case. Would have been looking at a much bigger bill. Definitely learned to get a proper diagnostic scan before assuming the worst with transmission issues.