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alfredschroeder96

VW Suran Trans Warning: Sensor vs Serious Damage Alert

I need advice about potential transmission sensor issues in my 2014 VW Suran Spacefox (143398km, gasoline). The transmission warning light came on recently, and the gearbox is acting strange with rough shifting and grinding sounds. The automatic transmission seems to be in some kind of safety mode now. My previous mechanic experience wasnt great, so Im hesitant to go back. Has anyone dealt with similar symptoms, especially related to the transmission oil temperature sensor? What was the actual problem and repair cost in your case? Looking for recommendations on how to proceed.

4 comment(s)

paulawagner10

Had similar transmission issues with my 2011 VW Golf GTI, which also developed rough shifting and warning lights. The automatic transmission went into limp mode, showing classic symptoms of transmission sensor problems. After inspection, it turned out the transmission oil level was critically low due to a faulty oil sensor providing incorrect readings. The grinding noise during gear changes was a clear indicator of insufficient lubrication in the transmission system. The repair involved: Complete transmission fluid level check, Replacement of the defective transmission oil sensor, Installation of new transmission filter, Full transmission fluid flush and refill This was a serious issue that required immediate attention. Continuing to drive with these symptoms could have led to complete transmission failure. The overheating problems caused by low fluid levels can severely damage internal transmission components. The repair took two full days in the shop. Since then, the transmission has been shifting smoothly with no warning lights. Would strongly recommend getting this checked soon, as transmission issues tend to worsen quickly when ignored. Worth noting that VW automatic transmissions are quite sensitive to proper fluid levels and maintenance schedules. Regular transmission maintenance could help prevent similar issues in the future.

alfredschroeder96 (Author)

Thanks for sharing your experience with the GTI. Exactly the same happened to my Suran Spacefox last winter. When the gearbox sensor started acting up, I got similar symptoms, rough gear shifting and that dreaded transmission warning light. My transmission oil temperature sensor was also giving false readings. I ended up fixing it at a transmission specialist after my regular mechanic couldnt properly diagnose it. The repair included new sensors and a complete transmission oil change. Worked perfectly since then, no more warning lights or shifting problems. Would you mind sharing what the total repair cost was in your case? Also curious if youve had any transmission-related issues since the repair was done?

paulawagner10

The total repair bill came to 365€, which covered fixing both the transmission oil temperature sensor and addressing the low gearbox oil level. The price included labor, new parts, and a complete transmission fluid change. Since getting the faulty transmission oil temperature sensor replaced, the automatic transmission has performed flawlessly. No warning lights, smooth gear shifting, and zero transmission-related problems for over 8 months now. The transmission specialist did a thorough job diagnosing and repairing the issue. Regular transmission maintenance is essential to prevent similar problems. My automatic transmission now gets checked during every service interval to ensure proper fluid levels and sensor function. The investment in proper repair was definitely worth it to avoid more extensive transmission damage down the line.

alfredschroeder96 (Author)

After seeing these helpful replies, I wanted to share how my situation got resolved. I took my Suran to a certified transmission specialist who properly diagnosed the issue. The gear shifting problems were indeed related to a faulty transmission sensor, just as others described. The repair involved replacing both the transmission oil temperature sensor and transmission fluid. They also found the original sensor was causing incorrect readings, leading to those overheating problems I experienced. The whole job took about 6 hours and cost 420€. The transmission has been working perfectly for the past 3 months, no more rough shifting or warning lights. The specialist also showed me proper maintenance schedules to prevent future issues. Really glad I decided to get it fixed by a transmission expert rather than going back to my previous mechanic. Would definitely recommend anyone with similar symptoms to get it checked immediately rather than risk more serious transmission damage.

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