Audi e-tron Transmission Grinding Needs Urgent Fix

The symptoms match what I experienced with my 2018 Audi e-tron GT. Transfer case oil degradation often causes these grinding sounds and rough shifting patterns. After a detailed inspection at the garage, we found metal particles in the transfer case oil, indicating significant gear wear. The issue was more serious than just needing an oil change. The transfer case had defective gears requiring complete replacement. The metal fragments had caused scoring on several gear surfaces. Regular transfer case oil changes could have prevented this extensive damage. Key inspection points to check: Transfer case oil condition and level, Metal particles in the oil, Gear engagement patterns, Transfer case bearing wear A simple oil change alone will not resolve grinding noises if mechanical damage has occurred. Given the high mileage on your Q4, recommend getting a professional diagnostic check focusing on the transfer case components. When gear wear becomes noticeable through sound and shifting problems, internal damage has likely already occurred.

Thanks for sharing your experience with the transfer case issue. That sounds exactly like what I am experiencing. I will definitely get it checked professionally based on your description. The grinding during gear shifts is really concerning me now, especially after hearing about the metal particles you found in your transfer fluid. Did you remember roughly how much the entire repair ended up costing? Also curious if you have had any other transmission or transfer case problems since getting it fixed?

Good news to report after getting my transfer case repaired. Since the mechanic diagnosed and fixed the oil wear issue, my Q4 has been shifting smoothly with no grinding sounds. The total repair cost was 330 Euro for replacing the defective gears in the transfer case. The transfer fluid analysis showed significant mechanical wear that matched the symptoms you described. Getting this addressed promptly prevented additional gear wear that could have led to more extensive damage. For the past 6 months since the repair, the transmission and transfer case have performed flawlessly. No signs of oil leakage or unusual noises during gear changes. Regular transfer case oil checks are now part of my maintenance routine to catch any potential issues early. Based on my experience, catching these symptoms early saved me from a much costlier repair down the line. The grinding noise during shifts is definitely a warning sign that should not be ignored.

I took my Q4 to a new mechanic yesterday based on the advice here. The diagnostic revealed exactly what was suspected, significant transfer case oil degradation with metal particles present. The grinding noise during shifts was indeed from worn gears, just as others experienced. The total repair cost came to 2800 Euro, which included: Complete transfer case overhaul, New gear oil, Replacement of worn components, Labor costs While expensive, I am relieved to have addressed it before causing more extensive damage. The mechanic showed me the metal debris in the old oil and explained how the gear wear had progressed. The car is now shifting smoothly again with no grinding sounds. Got it back today and already notice a huge difference in the transmission performance. Planning to maintain regular transfer case oil checks going forward to prevent similar issues.