Audi / Seat / Skoda / VW – Multitronic DSG / CVT Transmission Controller (TCM / TCU) Repairs

DSG / CVT Transmission Control Module Problems + Repairs
The automatic transmission fitted to VAG group vehicles, namely Audi / Seat / Skoda and Volkswagen (VW) are very commonly known for becoming faulty and causing all sorts of transmission related problems. All vehicles are affected from automatics to semi-automatics.. from Mechatronic, Multitronic and S-Tronic right down to DSG (Direct-Shift Gearbox) and CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) vehicles.

Sometimes these faults can be corrected by a simple Gearbox oil change or software update but more commonly the fault is caused by the Transmission Control Module (TCM), also known as the Gearbox ECU.

Common DSG / CVT Transmission Controller Problems
A failed Transmission Control Unit (TCU) can cause a wide number of faults. Some faults can be intermittent or become progressively worse depending on the nature of the fault but can almost always be repaired. Below we have listed some of the most common faults our customers have experienced with their failed DSG / CVT Transmission Controllers.

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

Common TCM Related DTC Fault Codes
A problematic DSG controller may not bring up any warning lights or fault codes so it’s not always as easy to locate the problem. We have however compiled a small list of common DTC fault codes below which we have found to be linked to DSG Transmission Control Unit problems.

• 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
• 18201 P1793 Gearbox Speed Sensor 2 G196 No Signal

Common Vehicles Affected By The Famous DSG Transmission ECU Problems
The Transmission Control Module problems affect all DSG / CVT vehicles in the VAG group (Audi / Seat / Skoda / Volkwasgen). Below we have compiled a list of the common vehicles we are aware of which our customers have sent us units from.

Common Transmission Control Module (TCM) Part Numbers
All units from all makes and models of vehicles are affected and so the list of part numbers is endless. We have taken the time to compile an extensive list of part numbers below which we have seen in our workshop time and time again for repair or exchange. Don’t worry if you’re part number is not listed, we can still test + repair it for you but if you’re unsure then give us a call on 0203 815 9441 and we can confirm this for you.

When the DSG Gearbox ECU becomes faulty, your local dealer will quote you in excess of £1000.00 +VAT for a replacement TCM unit which will also require coding / programming at an additional cost. The new replacement part will come with a standard 12 month warranty. Alternatively you have the option of replacing the DSG / CVT Transmission ECU with a used second-hand part but this will come with a limited 30-90 day warranty and will also require coding / programming at an additional cost.

My DSG Gearbox ECU Is Faulty – How Can SINSPEED Help Me?
At Sinspeed we have the latest Automatic Transmission Controller Testing equipment and are able to fully bench test + repair all transmission controllers. We have all the major components in stock to carry out a successful repair and have in many cases managed to repair units others have deemed irreparable. We also carry a large number of units in stock ready for exchange and can complete all the necessary coding / programming to the units in our workshop before returning it to you – making it fully plug & play. This means you can send your part to us for repair or replacement and when you get the part back, simply plug it in and away you go.. no need for expensive dealer coding / programming!

All of our DSG / CVT Gearbox ECU’s come with a Lifetime Warranty.

Additional DSG Remapping Services For Transmission Controllers
In addition to our transmission ECU repair and replacement services, we also offer a fantastic DSG Gearbox Remapping Service which can be applied at the same time as the repair, whereby we will fine tune the mapping of the DSG controller for a greater driving experience. Some of the key benefits will be a smoother gear change with zero hesitation, zero lag and gear shift speeds increased by 20%. Full information on our DSG Remapping Service can be seen here.

If you have a faulty DSG Gearbox ECU and are looking for a repair or replacement of your damaged TCM unit 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.