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tom_fischer8

VW Virtus Auto Trans Failure at 115K, Limp Mode Alert

My VW Virtus automatic transmission is acting up badly. The gearbox feels erratic when shifting and sometimes gets stuck in one gear. The transmission warning light is on and the car seems to be in some kind of safe mode. Running at 115373km, wondering if this could be due to old transmission oil. Has anyone experienced similar issues? Would a transmission flush help, or should I be prepared for bigger repairs? Looking for advice before heading to a mechanic.

4 comment(s)

lara_ghost1

Had similar transmission problems with a VW Polo TSI. The automatic transmission symptoms matched exactly what you describe, erratic shifting, gear holding, and limp mode activation. The diagnostic revealed an undervoltage issue affecting the transmission control module. The hydraulic fluid quality was not the main culprit, though low fluid levels contributed to the transmission performance issues. The repair required: Transmission control module reset, New transmission solenoids, Complete automatic gearbox fluid change, Voltage regulator replacement This was a serious repair that took multiple days to complete. A simple transmission flush would not have solved the underlying electrical problems affecting the transmission system. The transmission warning light typically indicates the system has detected a significant fault. When these symptoms appear together, especially in VW automatic transmissions, it usually points to electrical or solenoid issues rather than just old fluid. Recommend getting it diagnosed properly, these symptoms can lead to more severe transmission damage if left unchecked.

tom_fischer8 (Author)

Thanks for sharing those details about the VW transmission repair. Your case sounds quite similar to what I experienced. The automatic transmission in my Virtus started showing the same symptoms a while back, erratic shifting and that dreaded warning light. Did you remember the total repair cost? My mechanic quoted a significant amount but I am curious if it was in line with what others paid. Also, has your transmission been working properly since the repair? No recurring automatic gearbox issues? My symptoms started about a month ago and I am still weighing whether to do the full repair or try a transmission flush first, though based on your experience it sounds like the flush alone might not solve it.

lara_ghost1

Glad to provide an update on my VW transmission repair situation. The slipping transmission issues were completely resolved after the full repair. The mechanic confirmed the automatic gearbox problems stemmed from both the electrical undervoltage and worn hydraulic fluid. The total repair cost came to 240€ for fixing the undervoltage issues, which included the control module reset and electrical components. Well worth the investment since the car transmission has been functioning flawlessly for the past 8 months. Based on my experience, I would strongly advise against just doing an oil replacement or transmission flush. The electrical problems need addressing to prevent further transmission damage. The warning light and erratic shifting patterns point to more than just fluid issues. The repair took 2 days but solved all the automatic transmission problems. No recurring issues since then, and the shifting is now smooth and consistent. While the cost might seem high initially, it is far less expensive than replacing a damaged transmission later.

tom_fischer8 (Author)

Thanks for the input. I finally took my Virtus to the mechanic last week after the transmission performance kept getting worse. The mechanic found similar issues, faulty solenoids and electrical problems affecting the transmission control module. The total repair came to 2100€ including parts and labor. They had to replace several transmission components, reset the control module, and do a complete hydraulic fluid change. Pretty expensive but still cheaper than a full transmission replacement. The car has been running great since the repair. The slipping transmission issues are gone, shifting is smooth again, and no more warning lights. Really glad I got it fixed properly instead of just trying a transmission flush like I was initially considering. The repair took 3 days total but the wait was worth it. Having a properly functioning automatic transmission makes such a difference in how the car drives. Just wish I had addressed these warning signs sooner before the problems got worse. Now I know to take transmission warning lights seriously and not wait too long when shifting problems start. Regular maintenance and oil replacement seem key to preventing major transmission issues down the road.

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