Audi Multitronic DSG / CVT Transmission Controller (TCM / TCU) Repairs

Audi DSG / CVT Transmission Control Module Problems + Repairs
The automatic transmission control module (TCM) fitted to Audi vehicles are known as common failing parts, causing several kinds of transmission related issues. From automatics to semi-automatics, mechatronic, multitronic and S-Tronic to DSG (Direct Shift Gearbox) and CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) vehicles – all are known to be affected.

Occasionally these faults can be rectified by a simple Gearbox Oil change or software update, however, most generally the fault is caused by the Transmission Control Module (TCM) or more commonly known as the Gearbox ECU.

Common Audi DSG Transmission Control Module Problems
There are many faults that can be caused by a failed Transmission Control Unit (TCU). Faults can be intermittent or sometimes become progressively worse, all depending on the nature of the problem, however, they can be mostly repaired. Some of the most common faults that have been reported by our customers with their failed DSG/CVT Transmission Controllers have been listed below:

• Not Going Into Gear
• Loss of Reverse Gear
• PRNDS” Light Flashing
• Gearbox Going In Neutral
• Fail-Safe (Limp Mode)
• Loss of Power
• Jerking In / Out of Gears
• Gearbox Stops Working When Hot

Common Transmission Control Related DTC Fault Codes
It is not always easy to identify the problem caused by a failed DSG controller, as the DSG controller may not always bring up warning lights or fault codes. Some of the most common DTC Fault codes found to be linked with DSG Transmission Control Unit Problems have been listed below. Note that these codes are not specific to Audi so they may also be found on other vehicles as well.

• 18226 P1818 Pressure Control Valve 2 N216 Electric Error
• 18222 P1814 Pressure Control Valve 1 (N215), Open / Short to Ground
• 18223 P1815 Pressure Control Solenoid 1 (N215), Short to B+
• 18227 P1819 Pressure Control Solenoid 2 (N216), Open / Short to Ground
• 18228 P1820 Pressure Control Solenoid 2 (N216), Short to B+
• 18231 P1823 Pressure Control Solenoid 3 (N217), electrical malfunction
• 18232 P1824 Pressure Control Solenoid 3 (N217), Open / Short to Ground
• 18233 P1825 Pressure Control Solenoid 3 (N217), Short to B+
• 18236 P1828 Pressure Control Solenoid 4 (N218), electrical malfunction
• 18237 P1829 Pressure Control Solenoid 4 (N218), Open / Short to Ground
• 18238 P1830 Pressure Control Valve 4 (N218), Short to Plus
• 18241 P1833 Pressure Control Solenoid 5 (N233), electrical malfunction
• 18242 P1834 Pressure Control Solenoid 5 (N233) Open / Short to Ground
• 18243 P1835 Pressure Control Solenoid 5 (N233) Short to B+
• 18246 P1838 Pressure Control Solenoid 6 (N371), electrical malfunction
• 18247 P1839 Pressure Control Solenoid 6 (N371) Open / Short to Ground
• 18248 P1840 Pressure Control Solenoid 6 (N371) Short to B+
• 19143 P2711 Unexpected / Implausible Mechanical Gear Disengagement, Intermittent
• 17134 P0750 Control Valve 1/Solenoid Valve N88 Function Disturbance
• 17137 P0753 Control Valve 1/Solenoid Valve N88 Electric Error
• 17114 P0730 Gearshift-/ Transmission Surveillance Wrong Gear Transmission Ratio
• 18165 P1757 Power Supply, Interruption
• 17111 P0272 Rounds Count Signal From Engine ECU, No Signal
• 17090 P0706 F125 Drive Position Sensor Signal Implausible
• 17106 P0722 Gearbox Speed Sensor G195 No Signal

Audi Vehicles Affected By The Common DSG Gearbox ECU Problems
The Transmission Control Module problems affect all Audi DSG / CVT vehicles. Please see the list of Audi models below that we’ve have units sent to us from by customers in the past:

Common Transmission Control Unit (TCU) Part Numbers
The cost of replacing your DSG Gearbox ECU when the part becomes faulty has quoted to be in excess of £1000 + VAT from local dealers and would require programming at an additional cost. A standard 12 month warranty is supplied with your new replacement part, or the option to replace the DSG/CVT Transmission ECU with a used second-hand part with only 30-90 day limited warranty, which again will require coding/programming at an additional cost.

The list of part numbers for all makes and models of vehicles which are affected would be exhaustive as there are so many, therefore we have compiled a list of the most common units that we have repaired or exchanged in our workshop in the past. Do not worry if your part number is not on the list below, please give us a call on 0203 815 9441 and we will still be able to test and repair your unit.

My Audi Has a DSG TCM Module Fault – How Can SINSPEED Help Me?
Here at Sinspeed, we are not only able to fully bench test all transmission controllers with our latest Automatic Transmission Controller Testing equipment, but we also ensure that we hold all major components in stock to carry out successful repairs. We have also on many occasions been able to restore units that other garages have deemed irreparable. If we are unable to repair your module however, we hold a large number of units in stock ready to exchange, and we update it with all the necessary programming/coding before they are returned to you – making it fully plug and play! This means you can post your part to us for repair or replacement, and it will be returned to you fully functional without the extra costs of expensive dealer coding/programming required!

Lifetime warranty is provided with all of our DSG / CVT Gearbox ECU’s.

Additional DSG Remapping Services For Transmission Controllers
Not only do we provide a full service of Transmission ECM repair + replacements services, but we also offer a fantastic DSG Gearbox Remapping service to fine tune the mapping of the DSG controller for a more enhanced driving experience. This can be applied at the same time of the repair and will aid smoother gear change with zero hesitation as well as increase gear shifts speeds by 20% with zero lag! If you want more information on our DSG Remapping Service, it can be seen here.

If you are looking to repair or replace your damaged TCM unit or require diagnosis of a faulty DSG Gearbox ECU, then give us a call today on 0203 815 9441.

Ajaz

Ajaz is a seasoned automotive electronics engineer with deep expertise in remanufacturing vehicle electronics. He has developed skills in all areas of the automotive field, from rebuilding hydraulic steering components, and mechanical gearboxes and reworking intricate vehicle electronics. Ajaz also acquired Bodyteq, a London-based vehicle bodyshop where he has developed extensive knowledge in automotive refinishing.

Alongside his automotive career, Ajaz has built a career in the IT industry, gaining accredited certification as an AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner, Cloud Architect, and Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) specialist.