Ways To Diagnose DSG Transmission Problems in Your Volkswagen

Of late, Volkswagen vehicles have been equipped with the Direct-Shift Gearbox (DSG) that gives a sporty performance output to Volkswagen drivers without compromising on the fuel efficiency of the car. However, the DSG system isn’t free of any issues & problems with the system can completely bring you to a halt while driving.

There are certain signs associated with the failure of the DSG transmission system and keeping an eye out for these signs will help you in detecting the problems. In this article, we will discuss the ways to diagnose DSG transmission problems in your VW.

Hearing Unusual Noises

One of the primary signs associated with the malfunctioning of the DSG system in your Volkswagen is when you hear unusual noises in the form of grinding, clicking, and whining sounds coming from under the hood of your vehicle while driving.

The sounds point to underlying problems with your DSG system like wear & tear on the internal components including the clutch assembly, bearings, or synchronizers. In addition to that, if you are getting to hear the whining noise constantly then it signifies the presence of inadequate levels of transmission fluid, or internal gear problem, or a malfunctioning mechatronic system.

Besides that, grinding noise indicates something is wrong with your clutch or there is a gear misalignment in your vehicle. Furthermore, clicking noise points at problems with the solenoid or bad actuators that are failing to engage the gears properly.

Now, you can resort to driving uphill to help identify the source of the noise and if you come across these sounds then you must immediately get your transmission inspected to prevent any further damage to your transmission system.

Check Transmission Fluid Condition

The DSG transmission system is dependent on specialized fluid for proper lubrication & efficient functioning. Now, you must pay proper attention to the condition of the transmission fluid to determine whether anything is wrong with the transmission system of your Volkswagen.

Upon inspection, if you come across dark, foul-smelling, or contaminated fluid then it means that your transmission system is overheating or there might be the presence of internal wear or leak in the DSG system. Generally, the color of the DSG fluid is clear or light amber & if you notice any changes in it then it indicates contamination with metal particles or debris.

Besides that, the presence of inadequate levels of fluid can lead to a host of problems including shifting issues, irregular gear changes, and overheating & these issues can seriously damage your transmission system. That is why it is important to get your transmission fluid changed at regular intervals so that the viscosity of the fluid is maintained all the time.

In addition to that, some professionals also recommend going for a fluid flush & filter replacement as it has the potential to fix minor problems before they take a turn for the worse. You must make it a point to regularly check the condition of the transmission fluid in your VW.

Flashing Warning Lights

Often issues with the working of the DSG system can lead to illumination of the warning lights on the dashboard of your car. In fact, the Transmission Control Unit (TCU) keeps a tab on the performance of the system and will trigger the check engine light or transmission warning light of any detects anything is wrong with the system.

Now, you need to use a diagnostic scanner to read the diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) as it will help you pinpoint the exact problem with the DSG system like clutch slippage, a faulty sensor, or overheating. However, you mustn’t ignore the warning lights as it can lead to severe problems including a complete breakdown of your transmission.

Delayed Engagement

If your DSG system is functioning properly then it will engage the transmission promptly. However, if you notice that there is a considerable delay in the engagement of the transmission then it points to problems with the DSG system like hydraulic pressure loss, a failing clutch, or software-related problems.

Most of the time delay in engaging the gears is also caused by the presence of inadequate levels of transmission fluid, a worn-out clutch pack, or a bad mechatronic unit that needs to be addressed immediately.

Finally

The above-discussed factors are some of the ways to diagnose problems with the DSG system of your Volkswagen. If you come across anything unusual in your Volkswagen then don’t delay in taking your car to a certified auto repair shop to get it diagnosed & fixed immediately.