VW Taigo Trans: Grinding Shifts & Limp Mode Warning

Had similar symptoms on my 2020 VW T-Cross with the 1.5 TSI engine. The transmission issues started with rough gear shifting and warning lights, eventually leading to limp mode. The transmission oil sensor was definitely the culprit in my case. The faulty sensor was giving incorrect readings, making the transmission control unit think the oil temperature was too high. This triggered the safety mode to protect the gearbox. The repair involved replacing both the transmission sensor and doing a complete transmission oil change since metal particles were found in the old fluid. The metal debris came from the increased friction due to the transmission running with incorrect oil pressure. This is considered a serious issue since continuing to drive with these symptoms can cause permanent transmission damage. The grinding noise during gear changes typically indicates the transmission is not getting proper oil pressure or flow. After replacing the sensor and fresh transmission oil, all symptoms disappeared. The transmission shifting returned to normal and no warning lights since then. Would strongly suggest getting it checked soon, as delayed repairs could lead to complete transmission failure.

Thanks for sharing your experience. Your case sounds exactly like what I am dealing with now on my VW Taigo. The transmission issues and grinding noises are nearly identical. Did you also get those jerky gear changes before the warning lights came on? I will get the transmission sensor and oil checked as soon as possible based on your feedback. Do you remember roughly how much you paid for the complete repair? Also wondering if you had any other transmission problems since getting it fixed?

Just wanted to update regarding the costs, I paid 365€ total for the complete repair on my T-Cross, which included fixing both the faulty transmission oil temperature sensor and addressing the low gearbox oil level. The jerky gear shifting you mentioned was definitely one of the first warning signs I experienced before the dashboard lights appeared. Getting the transmission sensor replaced completely resolved those rough gear changes. Since having the repair done six months ago, the transmission has been shifting smoothly with no overheating problems or warning lights. The mechanic explained that running with a malfunctioning temperature sensor can cause serious transmission damage if left unchecked. In my case, catching it early helped avoid more extensive transmission repair costs. The gear shifting performance is now back to factory specifications. I would strongly recommend getting yours checked soon, as the symptoms you describe match my experience exactly. Proper diagnosis of transmission sensor issues early on can prevent more costly repairs down the road.

I finally took your advice and had my Taigo checked at the mechanic last week. The automatic transmission diagnosis confirmed exactly what you described, a faulty transmission sensor causing the gear shifting problems. The repair came to 395€ total, which included replacing the temperature sensor, flushing the transmission oil, and running a full diagnostic check. The mechanic found small metal particles in the old transmission fluid, just like in your case. The grinding noise and rough shifting completely disappeared after the repair. The transmission now shifts smoothly through all gears with no warning lights on the dashboard. Really glad I caught this early before any permanent automatic transmission damage occurred. Thanks again for sharing your experience. The symptoms matched perfectly and helped me push for the right diagnosis instead of potentially spending money on unnecessary repairs. Will definitely keep monitoring the transmission performance, but so far everything is working like new.