Audi Cvt



When it comes to your Audi service, you may be unfamiliar with the term multitronic. This type of gearbox combines the convenience of an automatic with better performance that in some cases rivals a manual. However, this type of transmission is often criticized over a traditional automatic by motoring press for its inferior driving experience. Read on for more information about how it works and how it compares to a traditional automatic and what alternative Audi now offers.

How A Multitronic Transmission Works

ECU CVT TCM TCU Control Unit Multitronic Automatic Transmission 01J927156HT 4B0910155Q For Audi VWs Repair US $415.00-$450.00 / Piece 1 Piece (Min Order). Audi's Quattro and tip is very reliable. CVT is another ballgame. Lots of quirks with this tranny. CVT does not have a torque convertor. If you have an Audi and have all the gear selector lights on and trouble shifting or a shudder and want to fix it your self this is how you repair it.

Multitronic is a type of automatic, CVT gearbox that has been used by Audi for many years, after being launched by Audi in 1999. It works as a step less transmission, based on continuously variable transmission (CVT). How multitronic differs is that the ratio between the input and output shaft can be changed within any range. This allows for a multitude of possible ratios. Multitronic uses a system of a link-plated chain drive, coupled with an oil-cooled multi-plate clutch and electronics.

The transmission can select preprogrammed underdrive to increase performance or overdrive to improve economy. It is monitored and regulated by Audi’s Dynamic Regulating Programme (DRP) which tracks:

  • The Driver’s Inputs
  • Driving Conditions
  • Engine Load

In 2004, multitronic was offered as a manual selection for sports mode. In addition, sensors were included to monitor when the car was going downhill, in order to provide further engine braking. The number of driver selectable ratios was also increased. Earlier versions offered six ratios, but has been increased to eight.

Known Mechanical Issues

Despite the advantages it offered, such as smoothness and improved fuel efficiency, the multitronic system experienced malfunctions. The multitronic transmission faced electronic glitches and mechanical issues. Models that feature the six-plate clutch pack that was introduced before or around 2006 were particularly affected.

Symptoms Include

  • Flashing gear selector (PRNDS indicator) on the dashboard
  • Hesitation and/or shuddering during acceleration
  • Inability to select reverse gear
Audi Cvt

Audi recommends CVT transmission fluid changes at 35,000 and 75,000 miles, however despite this, in some cases transmission failures still occurred even when abiding by the recommended fluid changes.

Characteristics Of Multitronic

Multitronic in comparison offers the same as five-speed manual gearboxes, and in some cases, was found to be better when it comes to performance. It has been deemed better to the traditional automatic transmission. A particular advantage is the in-gear acceleration, which triumphs over manual transmission cars. It offered the benefit of keeping the engine speed at very low revs because of the transmission ratio.

It was offered on front wheel drive-only versions of

  • Audi A4
  • Audi A5
  • Audi A6
  • SEAT Exeo (2.1 TSI gasoline engine)

Audi announced the discontinuation of multitronic in 2014, to be replaced with S tronic, the Audi A5 8T was the last model it was sold with. The S tronic offers the same benefit of low revs, while improving on the other problematic features of the multitronic system. It is able to reach the same engine speeds as with a multitronic with improved efficiency.

For more information about how your Audi gearbox works or if you have any queries or concerns, call us now (954) 746-0488 – we service all types of gearboxes as part of our Audi service offering.


By Bavarian Performance Specialists June 23, 2018

Transmission problems are the source of great stress for many drivers. However, if you drive an Audi with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), then your transmission problems might be a little different from those of other cars. In this article, we’ll go over how the CVT works, what the signs of issues are, and what you can do to address the problem adequately.

What is a Continuously Variable Transmission and How Does it Work?

Over the past few decades, regulatory standards for vehicle emissions and fuel economy have been getting stricter and stricter. With these more intense regulations, vehicle engineering and production for most manufacturers has focused on implementing different techniques to better enhance fuel economy and emissions in their vehicles. The continuously variable transmission, or CVT, is one solution that manufacturers, including Audi, have used as the standard transmission in many of their vehicles. So, how does it work?

In the Audi A4, A5 and A6, CVTs have afforded drivers better fuel efficiency and lower emissions through their efficient design. A CVT isn’t like a regular automatic transmission; though designs differ among manufacturers, it works by utilizing a system of two pulleys that are joined by a belt. One pulley is stationary while the other moves with the help of the hydraulic cylinder, which ultimately shifts the gear ratio eliminating the clunky steps between normal gear shifting. This is a more seamless transmission option that simultaneously maximizes engine power and fuel efficiency.

Symptoms of Malfunction to Look Out For

Though Audi cars are generally reliable and consistent across time, as you can imagine, like any other transmission if the CVT begins acting up it can cause serious performance problems in your Audi. It is critical to pay attention to how your car is behaving so that you can communicate the exact symptoms to your trusted Audi specialist for a more accurate diagnosis. Furthermore, the symptoms of CVT problems can look like those of other origin issues in your car; it is important to have your Audi specialist perform a differential diagnosis to rule-out other possible sources of the troubling symptoms.

Rough Running Conditions

Normally Audi vehicles are known for their smooth rides and luxurious comfort; when the CVT encounters issues, it is common to experience rough running conditions such as intense vibration, overall vehicle shaking, or even bucking when traveling at higher speeds. This is concerning and dangerous and should be checked out right away.

Slipping Transmission

It is a common symptom of transmission issues to experience slipping. Transmission slipping occurs when the RPMs go way up, but the car doesn’t exert the power it’s generating.

Fluid Leaks

Fluid leaks can occur in any transmission variation, and the transmission fluid is critical for optimal running. There are over a dozen different seals and valves in the CVT that can potentially leak transmission fluid, and it’s important that leaks get taken care of right away.

Hesitation Upon Gear Shifting

Depending on where in the transmission the problem is originating, it is also common for drivers to experience delayed gear shifting in their Audi vehicles with CVTs. The problem is usually related to a fluid leak or loose connecting belt.

Cvt

Burnt Odor Coming from Engine

Another common CVT issue in Audi cars is overheating and fluid leaks, both of which can cause a burning smell to emanate from the car. When the transmission fluid leaks into the exhaust, it can cause serious issues and should be repaired immediately to avoid further damage.

Why Hiring an Audi Specialist is Important

While CVT issues aren’t unique to Audi cars, several Audi models are equipped with continuously variable transmissions; this means that any automotive shop that performs maintenance or repairs on your car should have extensive knowledge of Audi vehicles as well as CVTs, including their common issues and how to fix them. Hiring an Audi specialist to handle your maintenance and repair work is the first step toward ensuring your vehicle’s longevity and reliability.

Audi Cvt

What We Can Do to Help You

The Audi experts here at Bavarian Performance Specialists serve a range of clients and Audi vehicles from the areas of Thousand Oaks, Agoura Hills, Westlake, Malibu, and Newbury Park, CA. Since 1983, we’ve been Conejo Valley’s leading independent German auto repair shop; our honesty, integrity, and quality of work are what make us stand out from other shops and dealerships nearby. If you’ve experienced transmission problems in your Audi recently, please call us to schedule a diagnostic appointment or to learn more about our qualifications working with Audi vehicles.

* Audi RS4 image credit goes to:supergenijalac.

Audi Cvt Reliability

* Audi A6 Front image credit goes to:imranahmedsg.