VW Caddy Trans Warning Lights Signal Major Trouble

Had similar transmission issues with a VW Golf 2008 gasoline model. The symptoms match what you describe, warning lights, rough shifting, and emergency mode activation. In my case, it turned out to be a faulty transmission control module connector with corroded pins. The cooling fan was also malfunctioning, which led to higher transmission fluid temperatures. This combination caused the erratic behavior. The repair required: Cleaning and reseating transmission control module connections, Replacing corroded wiring harness, Installing new transmission fluid cooler lines, Leak detection test on the entire cooling system, Transmission fluid and filter change This was a serious issue that required immediate attention since continued driving could have caused permanent transmission damage. The coolant leak into the transmission circuit through deteriorated oil cooler seals would have eventually destroyed the transmission if left unaddressed. The symptoms you describe strongly suggest electrical connectivity problems rather than internal transmission failure. Getting proper diagnostics from a transmission specialist would be the safest approach before the issue worsens.

Thanks for that detailed explanation of the transmission problem. Your repair list looks very similar to what my Caddy might need. My radiator coolant was also showing signs of contamination which matches what you found. Before I schedule anything, could you share how much the total repair ended up costing? Also wondering if you had any recurring issues or if the fix stayed solid? Really helps to know what I might be looking at cost-wise and if I should expect any follow-up problems. The car overheating symptoms have gotten worse this week, so trying to get this sorted quickly before more damage occurs. Picked up a pressure gauge to check the system but want to be prepared for the full repair cost.

The total repair job ended up being much simpler than initially expected. While the symptoms pointed to major transmission problems, the root cause was primarily the defective radiator oil pressure sensor. After replacing the damaged cable connection for 95€, the transmission warnings and erratic behavior completely cleared up. The cooling system has performed flawlessly since the repair three months ago. The fix addressed both the car overheating issues and transmission warnings, as the faulty sensor was sending incorrect signals to the transmission control unit. The pressure sensor repair prevented what could have been an expensive transmission overhaul. No recurring problems have surfaced since fixing that connector. The leak detection test we ran afterward confirmed the cooling system is now working as intended. This case shows why proper diagnostics are crucial, what seems like severe transmission failure can sometimes be resolved with a straightforward sensor repair. The oil cooler and other transmission components were actually in good condition once the sensor was properly communicating again.

Just wanted to update on how this turned out. Finally got the nerve to take it to a new transmission specialist after the sensor issues got worse. Turns out you were spot on about the control module connection. The mechanic found corroded wiring going to the transmission and a failing oil cooler that was causing the temperature spikes. Total bill came to 280€ for parts and labor, way less than I feared for transmission work. The cooling system is working perfectly now and all those warning lights are gone. No more grinding or rough shifts. Such a relief it wasnt a full transmission rebuild like I originally thought. They did a full coolant leak check while it was in and showed me the old corroded parts. Made me feel better about the whole repair knowing exactly what was wrong. Really glad I got it fixed before any serious transmission damage happened.