VW Arteon Torque Converter Failure Symptoms Exposed

Having some experience with transmission repairs, I dealt with nearly identical symptoms on my 2020 VW Passat last year. The torque converter issues started similarly, with transmission warning lights and noticeable gear slipping during acceleration. After the engine surge and rough shifting became more frequent, I took it to a transmission specialist. The diagnostic confirmed what I suspected, a failing torque converter with a damaged lock-up clutch. The transmission repair involved a complete torque converter replacement, which came to 2120€ including labor. The entire process took about 4 days, but the difference was immediately noticeable. No more grinding sounds, smooth gear changes, and all warning lights cleared. The workshop also flushed the transmission fluid and replaced the filter as preventive maintenance. To better assist with your situation, could you share: Current mileage on your Arteon, When the symptoms first appeared, Whether the transmission fluid has been serviced recently, If the problems occur more during cold starts or after the car is warmed up This information would help determine if your case matches the clutch problem I experienced and whether other components might need inspection.

Just had my latest service at 117315km and they checked the transmission fluid levels, all normal at that time. The symptoms started appearing about 2 weeks after that service, first with minor surging during gear changes, then progressing to the current state with the grinding noise. The automatic transmission issues seem worse during cold starts, especially in the morning, though the clutch problem and gear slipping remain noticeable even after warming up. The torque converter noise is most pronounced when shifting between 2nd and 3rd gear. Based on the similarity to your experience, it sounds like I should prepare for a significant repair bill. Did your workshop mention anything about warranty coverage for a transmission repair of this type?

Thanks for those details. Yes, the symptoms match almost exactly what I experienced, especially the cold start behavior and the specific issue between 2nd and 3rd gear. That was a telltale sign of the lock-up clutch failure in my case too. Regarding warranty, I learned that VW has a specific powertrain warranty that covers automatic gearbox components, including the converter fault you are experiencing. Mine was just outside the warranty period at 130000km, which is why I had to cover the full repair cost. Since your Arteon is a 2022 model with 117315km, you should definitely check your warranty status. The converter failure symptoms you describe should be covered if you are still within the warranty period. Even if slightly over, some dealers might offer goodwill coverage given the car's age. One warning from my experience: continuing to drive with these symptoms risks causing additional automatic gearbox damage. When my lock-up clutch started failing, metal particles from the converter began contaminating the transmission fluid. Getting it checked soon helped prevent more extensive transmission repairs. The repair process and costs were almost identical to what you will likely face, complete torque converter replacement plus a transmission fluid flush. If you need the full repair outside warranty, expect costs around 2000-2500€.

Based on that helpful information, it seems I will need to act quickly to prevent further transmission damage. The similarity between our converter fault symptoms, especially during cold starts and the 2nd to 3rd gear shifts, has convinced me this is indeed a torque converter lock-up clutch issue. I just checked my warranty paperwork and fortunately still have about 8 months left on the powertrain coverage. Will contact the dealer tomorrow to start a warranty claim for the automatic transmission repair before any additional damage occurs. The timing seems critical based on your experience with metal contamination from converter failure. For anyone else who might face similar symptoms, the key warning signs were: Initial transmission surging after cold starts, Progressive gear slipping, Grinding noise between specific gear changes, Multiple warning lights, Confirmed converter fault code Thanks for sharing your repair experience. It helps knowing what to expect and the importance of addressing these issues promptly. Will update once the repair is complete.