Audi Q5 Transmission Sensor Causes Shifting Nightmare

Having dealt with similar gear shifting problems on my Audi Q3 2017, I can share some experience about transmission issues. The symptoms you describe match what I encountered, rough shifting, warning lights, and limp mode activation. In my case, a workshop diagnostic revealed the gearbox oil level was critically low, which caused the temperature sensor to send incorrect readings. The transmission temperature sensor was functioning properly, but without adequate oil, the readings were inaccurate and triggered the warning systems. The repair involved: Complete transmission oil level check, Oil top-up and system pressure test, Gearbox sensor diagnostic scan, Reset of transmission control unit Total cost was 365 Euro, including parts and labor. The gear shifting returned to normal immediately after the repair. Before suggesting specific solutions, it would help to know: Current mileage on your Q5, When was the last transmission service performed, Are there any other warning lights active, Does the problem occur more frequently when the engine is cold or warm The transmission issues might be connected to regular maintenance requirements rather than a faulty sensor. Getting these details would help determine if your case requires similar treatment or points to different underlying problems.

Last service was at 160000 KM and current mileage shows 162235 KM. After reviewing the suggestions, I checked my transmission oil level, it appears normal. The grinding noise occurs mainly when the transmission is warm, usually after 15-20 minutes of driving. The issue seems worse than just low fluid levels. The transmission repair shop quoted 850 Euro for the sensor replacement including reprogramming the transmission control unit. Before committing to this expensive repair, Im wondering if anyone had success with just replacing the transmission sensor itself. No other warning lights are active besides the transmission warning. The rough shifting between gears and overheating problems are getting more noticeable each day, especially during highway driving. Starting to worry about potential damage to other transmission components if I delay the repair too long.

Thanks for the additional details about your Q5 transmission issues. When my transmission started showing similar symptoms, I initially considered just replacing the sensor, but my mechanic advised against partial fixes for transmission problems. The grinding noise during warm operation and persistent shifting problems point to more than just a sensor malfunction. In my experience with similar gearbox sensor issues, the symptoms progressed quickly, leading to more severe transmission problems. I ended up needing: New transmission oil temperature sensor, Transmission fluid flush, Valve body inspection, Control unit reprogramming Total repair cost was 920 Euro, which sounds similar to your quote. The cheaper sensor-only fix might seem appealing, but transmission issues often involve multiple related components. After my complete repair, all shifting problems resolved and the transmission has performed flawlessly for 40000 KM. The overheating indication and rough shifting between gears suggest the temperature sensor might be affecting the transmission control module performance. Waiting too long could lead to internal transmission damage, especially with highway driving stress. The 850 Euro quote for sensor replacement and reprogramming actually seems reasonable considering the complexity of modern transmission repair work. Would strongly recommend getting the complete fix done rather than just the sensor replacement.

Based on the conversation, I need to decide about this transmission repair before more damage occurs. I appreciate the detailed feedback about the complete repair option versus just replacing the sensor. The consistent mentions of transmission overheating problems and rough shifting between gears match my symptoms exactly. After hearing about potential complications from delaying repairs, I will schedule the full service including the transmission sensor replacement and control unit reprogramming. The 850 Euro quote seems fair compared to others experiences with similar transmission repair work. While its a significant expense, protecting the transmission from further damage makes more sense than risking a partial fix. Will contact the repair shop tomorrow to schedule the work and request they perform a complete transmission diagnostic before starting the repair. My main concern now is getting a rental car during the repair period. The symptoms are getting worse during highway driving, so I need to get this fixed within the next week. At least I now understand why the transmission warning light triggered and what needs to be done to resolve these gearbox sensor issues properly.