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C4rolineXtreme

VW Transporter Transmission Sensor Failure Fix Guide

Having trouble with my 2011 VW Transporter automatic transmission. The transmission warning light is on and the gearbox went into emergency mode. When driving, gear shifting feels rough with grinding sounds and occasional slipping between gears. The error code scan points to a transmission oil temperature sensor issue. Has anyone experienced similar symptoms with their automatic transmission? Looking for insights on repair options and potential costs. Most interested in hearing from those who had this fixed, what exactly was the problem and how was it resolved? Thanks for any help troubleshooting this gearbox sensor problem.

4 comment(s)

janschmid6

Had a similar issue on my 2013 VW Touran with the automatic transmission. Based on some experience working on transmissions, the symptoms you describe match what I encountered. The transmission oil sensor was giving false readings due to low transmission oil level. The gearbox sensor started triggering warnings because it could not get accurate readings. After checking the transmission oil level, the mechanic found it was significantly below the minimum. The workshop did a complete transmission oil change, replaced the transmission sensor, and conducted a diagnostic reset. Total cost was 365€ which included parts and labor. Since then, no more warning lights or rough shifting. Before suggesting specific fixes, could you share: Current mileage on your Transporter, When was the last transmission oil change, Are there any transmission oil leaks visible, Which specific error codes came up during the scan This information would help determine if your issue is similar to what I experienced with my transmission repair. The grinding sounds particularly suggest it could be more than just a sensor problem.

C4rolineXtreme (Author)

Thanks for the input. My Transporter has 78127km and had its last full service 3 months ago. After checking underneath, I noticed small transmission oil drops on the driveway. The error codes from the scan were P0711 and P0712, both pointing to transmission temperature sensor circuit issues. The grinding sounds are getting worse, especially during gear shifting between 2nd and 3rd gear. The automatic transmission seems most affected during cold starts. Based on your experience, it seems the overheating problems could indeed be linked to low transmission fluid levels rather than just a faulty gearbox sensor. Will schedule a transmission inspection to check the fluid levels and potential leaks before proceeding with sensor replacement.

janschmid6

Thanks for sharing those details. Your symptoms sound exactly like what I experienced with my Touran before getting it fixed. The error codes P0711/P0712 combined with visible transmission oil drops match the transmission issues I had. The grinding during cold shifts between 2nd and 3rd was also present in my case. Low transmission oil levels caused insufficient pressure, leading to those grinding noises. The transmission temperature sensor was giving incorrect readings because it wasnt properly submerged in fluid. Since youre seeing oil drops, I strongly recommend getting the leak fixed before replacing the sensor. In my case, a worn transmission seal was the root cause. The total repair including new seals, transmission oil change, and temperature sensor replacement cost around 520€. The good news is catching this early at 78000km means you likely prevented major transmission damage. Once fixed, my transmission has been shifting smoothly for 40000km with no warning lights or temperature sensor issues. Make sure the workshop does a proper transmission oil pressure test after repairs. This confirms if the gearbox sensor and fluid levels are working correctly.

C4rolineXtreme (Author)

Thanks for the helpful responses. After taking it to the workshop, they confirmed exactly what was discussed here. The transmission oil leak was coming from a worn seal, causing low fluid levels which triggered the temperature sensor warnings. The complete repair included: New transmission seals, Fresh transmission oil, Replacement temperature sensor, Full system diagnostic check Total cost came to 495€. The automatic transmission is now shifting smoothly with no more grinding or warning lights. The gearbox sensor readings are normal and the overheating problems are gone. No more oil spots on the driveway either. Really appreciate the advice about fixing the leak before just replacing the sensor. Helped me avoid potential transmission damage and saved money in the long run. Will make sure to check transmission oil levels more regularly during future services.

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