Audi's MultiTronic Gearbox
Discussion
Tame Technician said:
Go back to the very begining of the thread, there are a number of people who love the gearbox.
Most customers i speak to like it as its so smooth (no gears to change)
There will be a number of peple having a trouble free experience for each of the people having problems.
There are, but the positive reports last from July 06 to Aug 08 then after your first post it's a steady downhill climb in opinions. Perhaps the age of the cars now means the problems are more common?Most customers i speak to like it as its so smooth (no gears to change)
There will be a number of peple having a trouble free experience for each of the people having problems.
I do enjoy the smoothness, for motorway and city journeys alike. Any passengers comment on the relaxed ride. I see you're not a fan though, and you obviously know your stuff. Maybe I'll be lucky but it is playing on my mind. Is the 1.8t & CVT one of the more reliable combinations? I think I read that somewhere.
Feel like a bit of a mug for buying it.
I have a 2002 A6 2.5 TDI SE Auto which started to judder recently. I took the car to my local garage who checked the EMU but that was totally clear. They would not look at the transmission at all.
I decided to take the car to my local Audi Dealer believing that they would know exactly what the problem was.
I took the car in and they told me it would cost £80 for the investigation and I told them to go ahead. When I went to pick up the car they told me the EMU was clear (I already told them it was) but they found an oil leak at the "multitronic multiplug" and they suspected the oil level was low. I asked them if they filled it up and they said "No". So I asked them how low was low, empty or just below full. They said they didn't know. I started to guess that they didn't know what they were talking about.
The dealer now wants me to book the car in again for a "multitronic oil change investigation" and "an oil change". This will cost me £164 & £189. I said I would get back to them.
I phoned an independent Audi garage (A4Audi in Glasgow) and they told me in less than a minute what was wrong. So why couldn't the dealer? Are they just wanting to make more money out of me!
After that it was onto google to find out more and I searched for "Audi Multitronic gearbox problems" and got over 46,000 pages back. And yet my Audi Dealer didn't know what the problem was???
I have now put in a complaint to Audi directly and wait for the response.
The A6 is a brilliant car and the Multitronic gearbox is great when it works albeit a bit slow, but it is so smooth.
This is my second Audi (I had a Coupé before) and I do like them but as everybody is saying, STAY CLEAR of the Automatics.
I am going to get the 7 plate clutch upgrade and a new e.c.u., run the car till the summer, then flog it. Any takers.
I decided to take the car to my local Audi Dealer believing that they would know exactly what the problem was.
I took the car in and they told me it would cost £80 for the investigation and I told them to go ahead. When I went to pick up the car they told me the EMU was clear (I already told them it was) but they found an oil leak at the "multitronic multiplug" and they suspected the oil level was low. I asked them if they filled it up and they said "No". So I asked them how low was low, empty or just below full. They said they didn't know. I started to guess that they didn't know what they were talking about.
The dealer now wants me to book the car in again for a "multitronic oil change investigation" and "an oil change". This will cost me £164 & £189. I said I would get back to them.
I phoned an independent Audi garage (A4Audi in Glasgow) and they told me in less than a minute what was wrong. So why couldn't the dealer? Are they just wanting to make more money out of me!
After that it was onto google to find out more and I searched for "Audi Multitronic gearbox problems" and got over 46,000 pages back. And yet my Audi Dealer didn't know what the problem was???
I have now put in a complaint to Audi directly and wait for the response.
The A6 is a brilliant car and the Multitronic gearbox is great when it works albeit a bit slow, but it is so smooth.
This is my second Audi (I had a Coupé before) and I do like them but as everybody is saying, STAY CLEAR of the Automatics.
I am going to get the 7 plate clutch upgrade and a new e.c.u., run the car till the summer, then flog it. Any takers.
Less torque means easier life for the gearboc. I would think 1.8T has less torque than a 1.9 & 2.0TDI's and definatly has alot less than a 2.5TDI. So yes you are much less likely to have problems the that.
CVT's are a very clever engineering solution to gearing and technically infinatly variable gearing is far supiorer to a selection of 5, 6 or even 7 gears across a speed range.
I wouldnt feel a mug for buying one at all, especially if you have paid for a good warranty,but in future it is always wise to reasearch these things before hand. Remember what I said about there being lots of good cars with no problems for every one we see with a problem, if you hadnt read anything on this thread, would you even think the car was anything other than perfect????????
As for not being a fan, wheather you like the feel of how its works is down to taste, and I hate it. But that doesn't mean I'm right.
I hate no being in absolute control of what going on with the car, and as such hate driving auto's at all, but CVT is worse as there is no reference of what gear your in as its constantly variable, you put your foot down and the revs rise like clutch slip in a manual I know what its doing and its supposed to do that, but I dont like the feeling or the sound.
Also, I may deside I want to enter a corner at around 4000rpm (so if I need to tighten my line there is plenty of engine brake to put some more weight on the front wheels, and there is plenty of power avalable to get me out of the corner if all is well) I would like to be able to select the correct gear to enable me to do that but with multi you just cant. Even in the Manual mode, which is there specifically for this type of problem, it just isnt direct enough on and off the throtle and takes any enjoyment out of driving.
If you arent bothered about being than involved with the drive, and most people that buy auto's aren't, then these characteristics of CVT that drive me made, wont trouble you at all.
CVT's are a very clever engineering solution to gearing and technically infinatly variable gearing is far supiorer to a selection of 5, 6 or even 7 gears across a speed range.
I wouldnt feel a mug for buying one at all, especially if you have paid for a good warranty,but in future it is always wise to reasearch these things before hand. Remember what I said about there being lots of good cars with no problems for every one we see with a problem, if you hadnt read anything on this thread, would you even think the car was anything other than perfect????????
As for not being a fan, wheather you like the feel of how its works is down to taste, and I hate it. But that doesn't mean I'm right.
I hate no being in absolute control of what going on with the car, and as such hate driving auto's at all, but CVT is worse as there is no reference of what gear your in as its constantly variable, you put your foot down and the revs rise like clutch slip in a manual I know what its doing and its supposed to do that, but I dont like the feeling or the sound.
Also, I may deside I want to enter a corner at around 4000rpm (so if I need to tighten my line there is plenty of engine brake to put some more weight on the front wheels, and there is plenty of power avalable to get me out of the corner if all is well) I would like to be able to select the correct gear to enable me to do that but with multi you just cant. Even in the Manual mode, which is there specifically for this type of problem, it just isnt direct enough on and off the throtle and takes any enjoyment out of driving.
If you arent bothered about being than involved with the drive, and most people that buy auto's aren't, then these characteristics of CVT that drive me made, wont trouble you at all.
Edited by Tame Technician on Tuesday 8th December 18:25
3200Multitronic said:
Say if the mullitronic box pack in and you are left with a bill of £4000 or more for a relacement. Could you replace it with a tiptronic box instead? I've no idea if it's going to be cheaper but at least it should last longer.
You cant do it.The only thing you could do is buy a secondhand multitronic box however it would have to be from a car with the same engine as yours-I believe the ECU programming differs depending what engine the box is being used with,so there could be compatability problems.I speak as someone who has had to foot the bill for a replacement gearbox when one went wrong on an 02 A4 3.0 cabriolet I owned once.
Fort Jefferson said:
Welcome to Pistonheads, 
if you're depressed at your first post, you'll be suicidal in 12 months. 
Depression report: if you're depressed at your first post, you'll be suicidal in 12 months. Well the multitronic is as smooth as ever and I'm enjoying driving the car. It does occasionally feel like it's going to stall when I come to a stop, but never does.
Getting ATF changed by russell automotive centre next week, 20k since last one.
Unfortunately, a stupid woman reversed into my new pride and joy, denting the rear bumper.
The depression is deepening.
Edited by I'm with Brian on Thursday 10th December 15:44
Tame Technician said:
...if you hadnt read anything on this thread, would you even think the car was anything other than perfect????????
Well no, I'd think it was great. Tame Technician said:
As for not being a fan, wheather you like the feel of how its works is down to taste, and I hate it. But that doesn't mean I'm right.
I totally understand why you don't like the feel of the CVT. My plans with this car are to keep it for a summer or two, and get some relaxed, soft-top driving in throughout the UK and Europe. It's so smooth and gentle (for now 
) and perfect for what I want. I'll almost certainly get a manual afterwards however. You do feel a bit disconnected with a CVT, but it's great for what I have in mind.If/when the gearbox goes tits-up, I'm going to have a right go at Audi though. They should be held responsible for all this grief...
I have what's widely regarded as the worst possible combination of car, engine and gearbox, being and A4 cab - heaviest car? 2.5TDi - too much torque, multitronic gearbox - can't handle too much torque!
I've recently had an ECU failure and when fixed by Audi was told the gearbox internals were fine with no signs of judder, lucky me!
I wanted to ask, Tame tech maybe, if Audi have uprated the ECU's at all as the few independant garages I've spoken to say that with this gearbox it's not a case of if but when with regards to the ECU! One said he's gets one in a week! And this was a small garage in Tottenham, even Audi Stanstead said 'yeah we get quite a few' So I was wondering if Audi redesigned them or are they exactly the same as before?
Also has the software been updated as mine drives differently now, not sure if it's my now hightened senses as I worry about the bloody thing all the time or if say like a mobile the firmware gets a periodic update and mine is running different software than before?
Lastly, on the juddering side of things, my box has been well looked after with the first oil change at 30k and again with the ECU replacement at 60k, it's also had the 7plate clutch pack upgrade which got me thinking, if it does start to judder can't the clutch pack be swapped out for a new one? Or doesn't it work like that?
Thanks for any replies.
I've recently had an ECU failure and when fixed by Audi was told the gearbox internals were fine with no signs of judder, lucky me!
I wanted to ask, Tame tech maybe, if Audi have uprated the ECU's at all as the few independant garages I've spoken to say that with this gearbox it's not a case of if but when with regards to the ECU! One said he's gets one in a week! And this was a small garage in Tottenham, even Audi Stanstead said 'yeah we get quite a few' So I was wondering if Audi redesigned them or are they exactly the same as before?
Also has the software been updated as mine drives differently now, not sure if it's my now hightened senses as I worry about the bloody thing all the time or if say like a mobile the firmware gets a periodic update and mine is running different software than before?
Lastly, on the juddering side of things, my box has been well looked after with the first oil change at 30k and again with the ECU replacement at 60k, it's also had the 7plate clutch pack upgrade which got me thinking, if it does start to judder can't the clutch pack be swapped out for a new one? Or doesn't it work like that?
Thanks for any replies.
It shouldnt judder again if its had the 7 plate mod, thats what thats for, to fix the judder.
In the unlikely event that it does, yes you can have it replaced again, in principle the same as a worn clutch in a manual, only a lot more expensive, and harder to fit.
Its a good question about the ECU's, I dont know sadly. Not sure who manufacturers them but I would think they must have improved the process over the years at least a litle. Visually they are the same, so there is no way of knowing if they are improved inside.
Updates are indeed periodical things like phone firmware yes.
In the unlikely event that it does, yes you can have it replaced again, in principle the same as a worn clutch in a manual, only a lot more expensive, and harder to fit.
Its a good question about the ECU's, I dont know sadly. Not sure who manufacturers them but I would think they must have improved the process over the years at least a litle. Visually they are the same, so there is no way of knowing if they are improved inside.
Updates are indeed periodical things like phone firmware yes.
Blimey, I have a new 2.0 TDi A4 Multitronic on order (ordered Nov 08 and given March 09 as delivery!) ... it's on company lease deal, so I am a bit protected from cost of trouble (that's why I stick with company car scheme instead of opt-out), though the problem of a car that fails is the same. The ironic thing is that I am in a lease loan car whilst waiting, because my Volvo V50 D5 "geartronic" auto failed and lease company were happy to "get-rid" and let me choose a new car!!!
(but I have got a TVR Griffith in the garage to drive when the Audi fails, and the reliability of the TVR is much better than the Volvo was, or the Mercedes C-class I had before the Volvo!)
(but I have got a TVR Griffith in the garage to drive when the Audi fails, and the reliability of the TVR is much better than the Volvo was, or the Mercedes C-class I had before the Volvo!)
Edited by johnzo on Friday 11th December 20:36
JeffC said:
if it drives fine when cold, forget ebay where you have to tell the buyer about faults as it will do buttons , just stick it through a car auction sols as seen, if there is a warning light on see if you can pop the bulb out will make decent money.
I FEEL SORRY FOR THE POOR PERSON THAT BUYS A CAR FROM AUCTION THAT YOU HAVE HAD YOUR FINGERS IN(PULLING BULBS OUT)WHAT A NICE CHAP! YOU BEING IN MOTOR TRADE AND DOING THESE SORT OF THINGS IS ACTUALLY ILLEGAL PASSING ON AND KNOWING A MAJOR FAULT WITHOUT DECLARATION IN CAR AND EVEN WORSE "POPPING BULBS OUT"WHY DONT YOU CLOCK IT AT SAME TIME..FOOLJeffC said:
if it drives fine when cold, forget ebay where you have to tell the buyer about faults as it will do buttons , just stick it through a car auction sols as seen, if there is a warning light on see if you can pop the bulb out will make decent money.
I FEEL SORRY FOR THE POOR PERSON BUYING CAR FROM AUCTION IF YOU HAVE HAD YOUR FINGERS IN IT.THIS IS AN ILLEGAL ACT REMOVING ERROR BULBS KNOWING THERE IS A MAJOR FAULT WITH CAR,EVEN WORSE IF YOU ARE MOTOR TRADE RELATED!WHY DONT YOU ADVISE PEOPLE TO CLOCK CAR ASWELL CAUSE THATS AS BAD...FOOLA4 1.8t Convertible '54 plate, 37k
Recently I have been having a few problems that I suspect might be the Multitronic gearbox. Sometimes, at low speeds or stationary I put my foot down (not agressively) and the car does not move but the revs slowly climb. It's as if I've selected neutral except the revs only climb slowly instead of rapidly. It just seems to slip out of gear without any drama or noises. If I take my foot off the pedal and try again it pulls away.
Also, sometimes when coasting the car seems to stuck get stuck in a low gear, i.e 2nd when rolling downhill at say 40mph. I have to knock it into semi-auto and change it to 4th.
Anyone else had this? I've read a few horror stories regarding these gearboxes and I'm beginning to panic!!
Recently I have been having a few problems that I suspect might be the Multitronic gearbox. Sometimes, at low speeds or stationary I put my foot down (not agressively) and the car does not move but the revs slowly climb. It's as if I've selected neutral except the revs only climb slowly instead of rapidly. It just seems to slip out of gear without any drama or noises. If I take my foot off the pedal and try again it pulls away.
Also, sometimes when coasting the car seems to stuck get stuck in a low gear, i.e 2nd when rolling downhill at say 40mph. I have to knock it into semi-auto and change it to 4th.
Anyone else had this? I've read a few horror stories regarding these gearboxes and I'm beginning to panic!!
Hello, another newbie I'm afraid, with a slightly different but hopefully relevant question.
I've just brought my first caravan........no please don't stop reading, somebody had to and I do need your advice........and now I'm looking for a suitable tow car.
I currently have an 03 Plate Audi A6 Avant 1.9 TDi MANUAL. And we love the car, it's been fantastic. But as I've been a bit stupid, eyes bigger than wallet, I've brought a very heavy caravan and therefore need a heavier car to tow it. I don't want a 4x4, and as I love my Audit so much I'm thinking of buying another A6 Avant. As weight is important I'm looking at an 2.7 or 3.0 TDi. Somebody suggested there might be issues with the Multitronic gearboxes so I came here and have found the forum very useful. So from what I can see here.
Go for a manual, if you can find one although they are very rare on the big engine models. If not get a quattro, as the TIPtronic gearbox is good for 120,000 miles. This suits me as the Quattro and TIPtronic all add weight.
Have I got that about right? Slightly concerned that the TIPtronic is deemed a sealed unit and with the extra load I will be putting on it from a towing point of view should I avoid it?
Any other recommendations?
Thanks for your help.
Yes you've got it, Tip is the way to go if you must have an Auto and finding manuals on the higher spec cars is very very difficult indeed.
Regarding being sealed. All current ZF auto tranmissions are sealed for life, meaning there are no set oil/filter change intervals in the cars service scendule. There are not physically sealed and oil can be changed and filters replaced.
If you ring and ask an Audi dealer, should I have my gearbox oil replaced, they will say, no its not required there is no need, quoting the advise from Audi UK.
If you ask them, can you please change my gearbox oil and filter as I do a lot of towing and would like in done as a precaution, they would gladly do it, but the oil is not cheap.
Depending on exactly how hard you are on it, I'd say 40-60 miles would be a sensible milage to have this done, but as I have said before they do seem to be good for at least 120k without this precautionary measure.
Regarding being sealed. All current ZF auto tranmissions are sealed for life, meaning there are no set oil/filter change intervals in the cars service scendule. There are not physically sealed and oil can be changed and filters replaced.
If you ring and ask an Audi dealer, should I have my gearbox oil replaced, they will say, no its not required there is no need, quoting the advise from Audi UK.
If you ask them, can you please change my gearbox oil and filter as I do a lot of towing and would like in done as a precaution, they would gladly do it, but the oil is not cheap.
Depending on exactly how hard you are on it, I'd say 40-60 miles would be a sensible milage to have this done, but as I have said before they do seem to be good for at least 120k without this precautionary measure.
TT Thanks for the prompt response. So if I get one, to be on the safe side, ask my local Audi Dealer to change the oil every 40,000 miles.
Slightly worried that you meant every 40-60miles which on the drive done to Spain would be quite often :-)
Another question, hearing issues about cooling/towbar fitment on Audis. Should I be worried?
Slightly worried that you meant every 40-60miles which on the drive done to Spain would be quite often :-)
Another question, hearing issues about cooling/towbar fitment on Audis. Should I be worried?
sorry every 40,000 to 60,000 miles.
Get a price for the tow bar before you buy the car, if at all posible get the proper Audi one. Some models, dont think A6 is one of them, but some do need additional fans and cowls behind the rad, included in the very expensive Audi kit, but not any of the cheaper, none genuine options, there fore there a a risk of overheating it hot countrys if you dont have the Audi approved one.
I think its only the new A4 A5 and A5, I know Audi UK are paying towards the cost for people that order them on some of the newer cars.
Get a price for the tow bar before you buy the car, if at all posible get the proper Audi one. Some models, dont think A6 is one of them, but some do need additional fans and cowls behind the rad, included in the very expensive Audi kit, but not any of the cheaper, none genuine options, there fore there a a risk of overheating it hot countrys if you dont have the Audi approved one.
I think its only the new A4 A5 and A5, I know Audi UK are paying towards the cost for people that order them on some of the newer cars.
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