VW T-Cross Rough Gear Shifts: Trans Oil Leak Alert

I had a similar issue with my 2020 VW T-Roc, also with an automatic transmission. With some experience working on VW transmissions, I can share my repair journey. The symptoms started exactly like yours, rough shifting and gear wear symptoms. The gear grinding sensation during acceleration was particularly concerning. After noticing oil leakage near the transmission, I immediately took it to a specialized transmission workshop. The diagnosis revealed defective gears in the transfer case, which was causing both the gear wear and oil leakage. The oil leakage was actually a symptom, not the root cause. The workshop had to partially disassemble the transmission to replace the damaged components. The total repair cost was 330€, including new parts and labor. To better assist with your specific case, could you provide: Current mileage, Type of transmission (DSG or conventional automatic), When was your last transmission oil change, Whether the grinding occurs at specific speeds or gear positions, If any warning lights appeared on the dashboard These details would help determine if your issue matches what I experienced and whether similar repairs might be needed. Regular transmission oil changes can prevent some of these issues, but mechanical gear wear sometimes occurs despite proper maintenance.

Thanks for the detailed feedback. My mileage is currently at 21235km, and I just had the regular service completed two weeks ago. The transfer fluid levels were checked during service with no issues reported. The gear grinding occurs mostly during upshifts between 2nd and 3rd gear, and it is a DSG transmission. No warning lights have appeared on the dashboard yet. Based on your experience, I am concerned about potential transfer case problems since the symptoms match closely. Given that my vehicle is still under warranty, I will schedule an appointment to have the transmission inspected, particularly focusing on the gear oil and potential mechanical wear issues you mentioned.

Thanks for those additional details. The symptoms you describe with the DSG, especially the specific grinding between 2nd and 3rd gear, match exactly what I experienced before the repair. Even though your service was recent, mechanical wear in the transfer case can develop independently of oil conditions. Since your mileage is relatively low at 21235km and the vehicle is under warranty, definitely have the dealer investigate. In my case, the gear grinding started subtly but progressively worsened over time. The early oil leakage I noticed was a clear indicator of developing transfer case issues. The fact that your fluid levels were checked recently and found normal suggests this could indeed be mechanical wear rather than an oil-related problem. When my transmission was repaired, they discovered early stages of gear wear that would have become much more serious if left unaddressed. With warranty coverage, you should be able to avoid the 330€ repair cost I faced. Make sure to document the gear grinding symptoms and any oil leakage spots you notice, as this will help with the warranty claim process.

Thanks for the additional insights and sharing your repair experience. After hearing your similar case, I definitely feel more confident about the steps I need to take. Since my symptoms exactly match what you experienced, especially the gear wear between 2nd and 3rd gear, I will prioritize getting this checked under warranty. Looking at the small oil leakage spots again this morning actually made me more concerned about potential transfer case damage. I will take photos to document this and the location of the gear oil leak before taking it to the dealer. At least I wont have to pay the 330€ repair cost you mentioned thanks to the warranty coverage. The fact that this could be mechanical wear developing despite proper oil levels is concerning, but catching it early should prevent more extensive damage. I will update this thread after the dealer inspection for others who might experience similar transmission issues.