Q5 Transmission Chaos: Grinding, Slipping & Display Glitch

Had similar issues with my A4 (2015, gasoline). The automotive electronics were showing identical symptoms, gear indicator malfunction and transmission problems. The root cause was a sensor problem affecting the entire transmission control module. The car dashboard would display incorrect gear positions, and the shift knob response was delayed. The transmission control unit was completely defective, requiring a full replacement along with recalibration of the gear position sensors. This is a serious issue that affects the entire transmission system. The fault typically stems from electrical failures in the control module rather than mechanical transmission problems. The repair involved: 1. Complete diagnostic scan 2. Replacement of transmission control unit 3. Sensor calibration 4. Software update 5. Multiple test drives to verify proper function The repair took 3 days total. This is a known issue with several models from this manufacturer during that production period. Would recommend having it checked by a certified specialist who has experience with these specific transmission systems. The longer you drive with these symptoms, the higher the risk of causing additional damage to the transmission components.

Thanks for sharing your experience. Sounds exactly like what Im dealing with on my Q5, especially the gear indicator issues and rough shifting. Really helpful to know it was the transmission control unit in your case. Been a few months since that post, any chance you remember the total repair cost? Also curious if everything has been working properly since the fix or if youve noticed any other sensor problems with the gear shift system?

Glad to provide an update. The repair cost me 1000 Euro for replacing the faulty control unit, which completely resolved the gear indicator display issues. Since the fix six months ago, the gear selector and transmission have been working flawlessly, no more incorrect readings on the instrument panel or rough shifting problems. The mechanic confirmed the sensor problem was indeed causing all those concerning symptoms. Having a certified specialist handle the repair was worth it, as they properly recalibrated all gear position sensors after installing the new control unit. The shift knob now responds smoothly, and the gear indicator shows the correct position every time. No more grinding sounds or transmission slipping. If your symptoms match what I experienced, getting the control unit replaced should solve the issues completely. The repair costs were reasonable considering the complexity of modern transmission electronics. Much better than risking damage to the entire transmission system by delaying the fix.

Looking back, I finally got my Q5 fixed last week and wanted to share how it went. After reading about similar experiences, I took it to a certified transmission specialist who immediately identified the issue with the electronic display and transmission control unit. The diagnosis confirmed a faulty sensor problem affecting the gear selector system. They replaced the control unit and recalibrated all sensors. The total repair came to 1200 Euro, slightly more than expected but worth every cent. The instrument panel now shows correct gear positions, and the shift knob responds perfectly. No more grinding or slipping, the transmission shifts smoothly like new. The whole repair took 2 days, and they even did a thorough test drive to ensure everything was working properly. Really glad I got it fixed when I did. The mechanic mentioned waiting longer could have caused serious damage to the transmission. If anyone else experiences similar symptoms, definitely get it checked by a specialist who knows these systems.