VW Scirocco Trans & Engine Lights Signal Major Trouble

I had very similar symptoms on my 2014 VW Golf GTI. The transmission problems turned out to be connected to the oil cooler system failure, which was causing incorrect pressure readings and transmission overheating. The main issue was a faulty pressure sensor connection and damaged wiring harness near the transmission cooling system. The coolant leak from the oil cooler made the situation worse, as it affected the transmission fluid temperature regulation. The repair involved: Replacing the damaged oil cooler unit, Installing new pressure sensors, Repairing the wiring harness, Flushing the cooling system, Recalibrating the transmission control module This was definitely a serious repair that required specialized diagnostic equipment. The transmission could have suffered permanent damage if left unaddressed. The cooling fan also needed inspection as it wasnt cycling properly due to the system issues. Based on your symptoms, especially the limp mode and grinding sounds, I strongly suggest having the oil cooler and pressure sensor connections checked first. These components often fail on VW models around the 140-150k km mark.

Thanks for sharing your experience. I had almost identical issues with my Scirocco last summer. The symptoms match perfectly, transmission warning lights, rough shifting, and that annoying limp mode. My radiator coolant was actually mixing with transmission fluid due to a cracked oil cooler, which explained the wonky pressure readings. Would you mind sharing what the total repair cost was for your Golf? In my case, the radiator repair, parts, and labor came to around 1200€. Just wondering if that sounds reasonable compared to what you paid. Also curious if youve had any transmission or cooling system problems since the fix? Mine has been running smoothly for about 6 months now, but Id like to hear about longer-term reliability after this type of repair.

Had my VW Golf GTI back to the shop last week and Im happy to report everything is working perfectly. The mechanic checked the radiator oil pressure readings and confirmed the repair from last year fixed all issues. The faulty connection that was causing the weird pressure readings cost 95€ to fix, just needed a new cable and proper connection to the sensor. Looking back, the initial diagnostic was spot on, the whole transmission trouble really came down to the oil cooler system not working right. Since fixing the cooling system components and getting that pressure sensor sorted, the transmission has been shifting smoothly. The cooling fan cycles normally now and the radiator coolant stays where it should. Your 1200€ repair cost sounds about right considering they had to deal with mixed fluids and a cracked oil cooler. My total was actually higher since I needed the full cooling system overhaul. Good to hear your Scirocco is running well, these fixes tend to last when done properly.

After reading all the helpful replies, I wanted to update everyone on what happened. I took my Scirocco to a different mechanic who specializes in VW transmissions. The leak detection test confirmed what others suggested, the oil cooler had failed and was mixing fluids. The pressure gauge readings were way off, showing transmission overheating. The repair included replacing the oil cooler, fixing some damaged wiring, and doing a complete flush of both the transmission and cooling systems. Total cost came to 1450€, including parts and labor. A bit more than expected, but the mechanic showed me the damaged parts and explained everything clearly. Its been 2 weeks since the repair, and the transmission is shifting perfectly. No more warning lights, grinding noises, or limp mode issues. The cooling fan cycles normally now, and the radiator repair seems solid, no leaks or pressure problems. Honestly relieved to have this fixed properly instead of getting bad advice from that first shop.