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robertguenther59

VW Crafter EV Transmission Troubles & Repair Costs

Looking for advice on my 2018 VW Crafter electric van at 172373KM. The gearbox has started acting up with rough shifting and occasional slipping between gears. My transfer case warning light came on recently, and the vehicle seems to be stuck in limp mode. Previous mechanic visit left me with doubts about their diagnosis. Has anyone experienced similar transmission issues with their Crafter? What did it turn out to be and how much did the repair cost? Also interested in recommendations for shops that really know electric drivetrains.

4 comment(s)

maximilianbraun7

Working on a 2015 VW e-Golf, I encountered similar symptoms. The transfer case warning combined with rough shifting often indicates more than just transmission issues, it typically points to a failing ABS module affecting multiple systems. When the ABS module starts malfunctioning, it can trigger the traction control system incorrectly, forcing the vehicle into limp mode. The gear selector issues are often a consequential fault rather than the root cause. In my case, diagnostic trouble codes revealed that the ABS module was sending incorrect signals to both the transmission control unit and stability management systems. The repair required: Full diagnostic scan of transmission control module, ABS module replacement, Recalibration of multiple control units, Reset of the torque converter adaptation values This turned out to be quite serious as the faulty ABS module had begun affecting other critical safety systems. Without proper repair, it could lead to complete transmission failure and loss of stability control. For VW electric vehicles, the integration between systems is complex, when one major component fails, it often creates a cascade of issues. Having the right diagnostic equipment and expertise in electric drivetrain systems is crucial for accurate diagnosis and repair.

robertguenther59 (Author)

Thanks for sharing those details about the ABS module issues. I recently had powertrain malfunction warnings on my 2017 Crafter, with very similar symptoms. The repair ended up involving the control module replacement and a complete system recalibration. Mind sharing roughly what the total repair cost was for you? Also curious if youve had any traction control problems since the fix? My van has been running fine for 3 months now but always good to know what to watch out for.

maximilianbraun7

After taking it to a VW specialist, the faulty ABS module was indeed causing the transfer case limp mode issues. They identified and cleared multiple fault codes that were triggering incorrect signals to the transmission control unit. The good news is all repairs were covered under an extended warranty campaign for the ABS system. Total cost came to 0€ since this was a known issue affecting multiple vehicles. The traction control system has been working flawlessly since the fix, no more unexpected activations or warning lights. They also performed a complete system recalibration which resolved the rough shifting. The gear selector now operates smoothly between all positions. Been driving it for over 6 months with zero transmission or stability control problems. The diagnostic scan was key in confirming the ABS module was the root cause rather than an actual transmission failure. Worth getting a full system scan if similar symptoms return, as these control modules are highly integrated in electric vehicles.

robertguenther59 (Author)

After dealing with those transmission troubles in my Crafter, I finally got it sorted at a specialized EV shop. The mechanic found multiple diagnostic trouble codes related to the powertrain malfunction. Like you mentioned, the transfer case warning was tied to the ABS module acting up. Total repair came to 2800€ which covered: Control module replacement, Full system diagnostic, Recalibration work, Labor costs The shop took 3 days to complete everything. They showed me the faulty parts and explained how the traction control system was getting false signals. Been driving it for 3 months now with no issues, shifts are smooth and no more warning lights. The investment was worth it considering how critical these systems are for safe operation. Good to know these symptoms are somewhat common in our model year and not necessarily a full transmission failure.

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