DSG - I'm Disappointed

[Passatier3]

Hi Guys

I know plenty has been posted over the years with regards to DSG but wanted to share my experiences/views as I have now run the car for two years and am getting disillusioned.

I have a ’58 plate 2.0 Tdi Sport Estate with DSG which I bought new to replace a manual SE. Couldn’t really afford the DSG when I bought the SE and I wanted to leave it until the technology had been tried and tested and any bugs ironed out.

Decided to have DSG on the new car but to be honest I’m regretting it now. It’s a love/hate relationship - in some ways it’s brilliant – being able to swop between auto and manual modes and it’s very smooth in third and above. However it’s slow speed characteristics are making me increasingly disappointed.

Changing down from third and below for roundabouts etc. in auto it frequently clunks and when pulling away it is jerky/kangaroos (particularly when warmed up). Worse if using autohold as it will clunk at the point of pulling away. I thought the auto aspect of DSG would be good for traffic queues and speed bumps but these failings are spoiling it for me. I’m a sympathetic and smooth driver and try to drive around the problems e.g. not always using autohold and feathering the throttle but with limited success. The clunks aren’t very loud but are noticeable and aren’t acceptable and passengers comment on the jerkiness when pulling away.

At very slow speed, particularly if even slightly uphill, it is difficult to park closely to walls/the garage door etc. as on tick over it will creep forward a bit, stop and then lunge forward as the clutch engages again – you have to be quick with the brakes! It’s tempting to use some throttle but even with the lightest touch it can shoot forward if not very careful – more so in reverse. I really miss the fine control that a manual gives you in these situations.

Not very often for me, but also when parking in a field with stony tracks at rallies, shows etc. erratic progress is made as the clutch can’t make up it’s mind whether it should be engaged or not! I can’t wait to get back onto tarmac!

DSG failings aside, I love the car and would have another but I’m sure now it would be a manual again.

VW/Audi technology in producing DSG using a manual gearbox is obviously brilliant but IMO it is flawed at slow speeds – you just can’t beat a human being for some tasks! Maybe one day they will get it right?

If I was buying a sporty petrol engined car for use mainly on the open road then I might be tempted with DSG again but as I’m probably sticking with a diesel estate for now the next one will be a manual.

[logiclee]

Hi Guys

. However it’s slow speed characteristics are making me increasingly disappointed.

Changing down from third and below for roundabouts etc. in auto it frequently clunks and when pulling away it is jerky/kangaroos (particularly when warmed up). Worse if using autohold as it will clunk at the point of pulling away. I thought the auto aspect of DSG would be good for traffic queues and speed bumps but these failings are spoiling it for me. I’m a sympathetic and smooth driver and try to drive around the problems e.g. not always using autohold and feathering the throttle but with limited success. The clunks aren’t very loud but are noticeable and aren’t acceptable and passengers comment on the jerkiness when pulling away.

At very slow speed, particularly if even slightly uphill, it is difficult to park closely to walls/the garage door etc. as on tick over it will creep forward a bit, stop and then lunge forward as the clutch engages again – you have to be quick with the brakes! It’s tempting to use some throttle but even with the lightest touch it can shoot forward if not very careful – more so in reverse. I really miss the fine control that a manual gives you in these situations.

Not very often for me, but also when parking in a field with stony tracks at rallies, shows etc. erratic progress is made as the clutch can’t make up it’s mind whether it should be engaged or not! I can’t wait to get back onto tarmac!


These are quite common problems with the DSG but they are problems, the DSG is not normally like this.

I've driven several and all have been silky smooth and mine pulls away from autohold as smooth as silk.

I also have a very tight garage and smoothly pull in and out on tickover just feathering the brakes.

Yours being a 58 plate I'd get it into the dealers and get them to check it out. Arrange for a drive in a demonstrator to double check.


Cheers
Lee

[DSG4ME]

What is yours a PD or CR engine, if it's a PD you will get the jerks, mine isn't what I call smooth until 3 changes up to 4, it's just how they are tbh.

[johnloaderuk]

If you do a search for 'mechatronic' here on the B6 forum you'll find others have mentioned this many times before, and you may gain some useful information from some of the threads.

[DSG4ME]

If you do a search for 'mechatronic' here on the B6 forum you'll find others have mentioned this many times before, and you may gain some useful information from some of the threads.


There's nothing wrong with his box, mines had a new mech unit fitted before I got it, and it's still noticeable when going through the 1st 3 gears, the PD's lag anyway, this in turn upsets the rest of it, if you learn how 2 drive it you don't notice it, VW have even been scalded for releasing a product that the user then has to adapt to, if it's a Sport it's 99% gonna be a PD, Lee has a CR, CR are supposed to be smoother anyway, hence why people think they aren't as quick as they actually are.

[johnloaderuk]

There's nothing wrong with his box, VW have even been scalded for releasing a product that the user then has to adapt to

I wasn't suggesting that there was anything wrong, merely that the search will give the opinion of many others who have the DSG box.

As for learning how to adapt to it I guess that can be said of any new car, such as learning the biting point of a manual clutch, when are the best revs to change gear etc.

I also think the motoring press give the impression that the DSG is silky smooth, but then as in logiclee's case, they have a new car to drive. Maybe it develops a bit of 'slack' over time, which should be adjusted, but isn't seen as a serviceable job by VW, so it never gets done. Who knows.

[DSG4ME]

I wasn't suggesting that there was anything wrong, merely that the search will give the opinion of many others who have the DSG box.

As for learning how to adapt to it I guess that can be said of any new car, such as learning the biting point of a manual clutch, when are the best revs to change gear etc.

I also think the motoring press give the impression that the DSG is silky smooth, but then as in logiclee's case, they have a new car to drive. Maybe it develops a bit of 'slack' over time, which should be adjusted, but isn't seen as a serviceable job by VW, so it never gets done. Who knows.


Fair point John, but the net is a fear factor creator half the time, and given the cost of those boxes the last thing he needs is to think anything s wrong with it and get a don't waste our time charge from VW dealers, half the ppl on the net guess these things anyway, and a DSG isn't the most popular choice of shift compared with a manual, so a manual user will try to guess a box they've never driven, or even a test drive doesn't reveal real life as you are trying to digest as much of the car as possible in a short time and end up being able to remember nothing you went to look for.

[johnloaderuk]

After searching on the net it appears several people have had their DSG's successfully 'reset', and they should be silky smooth as logiclee says. Might be worth trying for those have the software available.

Procedure here http://wiki.ross-tech.com/wiki/index.php/6-Speed_Direct_Shift_Gearbox_(DSG/02E)

[dunkley201]

Mine is 07 with 36k on it (and a PD). DSG is smooth, just have to get used to its over willingness to change down to 2nd when pulling away on roundabouts for example. I suggest you get the software updated, maybe even a complete reset and set up from scratch - it's still under warranty isn't it?

[Cylon2007]

Mine is 07 with 36k on it (and a PD). DSG is smooth, just have to get used to its over willingness to change down to 2nd when pulling away on roundabouts for example. I suggest you get the software updated, maybe even a complete reset and set up from scratch - it's still under warranty isn't it?


I agree, mines a 57 plate (Jan 08) 140 PD DSG and apart from a slight hestation on initial pull away the cahnge is fine and never jerky. Putting the box into Sport or manual loses most of the hesitation.

[DSG4ME]

I wouldn't say mines jerky, it's just not silk, i.e I know when shes changed up, but 3 going through to 6 is a more undetectable change.

[rapport25]

I wouldn't say mines jerky, it's just not silk, i.e I know when shes changed up, but 3 going through to 6 is a more undetectable change.

Apart from the slight hessitation when pulling off from roundabouts mine is silky smooth.

I would just call the local dealer and make sure yours is not outstanding any software updates.

[The Fingers]

I have had a 2.0 TDI DSG (140PD) for almost three years now (coming up to 60K) it has had a new Mechatronic unit at 48K and in all honestly it is the same as when it was changed. Actually it may actually be worse than before so i think on reflection the new mechatronic unit was a waste of time and money (not mine)

It is a little undecided in low gears at slow speeds and can be harsh if too much peddle is applied during take off. I still cant get it away from the lights faster than a 1200 polo but once it moves (bang!! bye bye)

My car is due a major service in 1000 miles (60K) and i will be having an end of warranty check done.

Having driven one for quite a lot of miles i think the clutch packs tend to wear and the jerkyness appears as it dumps the clutch with a snatch. I tend to only use the first inch of the accelorator pedal up to say 30 MPH then freedom of full pedal use after. I some times like to full pedal and button from an auto hold start every now and again especially when a cheeky corsa or saxo thinks he can jump in front of me from the lights (foot to floor......wait for it..... wait for it.....BOOOOOOOOMMMMM:D BYE BYE MUPPET)

Clunks - never heard and audiable clunk on gear change.

I do every now and again get a bit of kangarooing when i have gone straight from reverse into drive and set off. But i put this down to impatience on my part.

At every service i ask for mine to be reset to default settings and allow it to re learn my driving style again which seems to help.

I find 'auto hold' great, its just getting used to it. tiny tap to release then gradually give it some beans. In heavy traffic it is spot on (suffer with knee pain in traffic in a manual) as traffic moves tiny tap and let it creep, in very slow crawling traffic pop it in 'S' it holds the creep in first ( a little slower) and 'D' hold creep in second. Although auto hold does catch me out some times and engages just when you dont want it too!!

Manual - Mine is great in all gears on the way up but a little iffy from third down. It needs a bigger gas blip as it changes to reduce the dragging into lower gear ( i let it deal with itself in manual on the way down from third its better than me) Its also better to do the manual changes keeping it over the turbo. drop from higher gear at about 2000 rpm (my manual loves the 2000 to 3500 rpm sweet spot) I walso get a surge in power at about 3800 (but thats the standard poo map)

sorry for the waffle but i tought i would give my 2 pennies....

To the OP i would say it needs a reset to default settings and maybe the clutch packs re calibrating. If it is still giving you grief after this then try a new mechatronic (under warranty) although i have heard that the new mechadoodoo fix was for 07 / 57 cars as mine is a 57 and was on a list for software update and or replacement (had both software first then mechadoodoo in another 5K)

God i go on a bit...........................


edit.... and SNOW (dsg = doesn't snow go) DONT GET ME STARTED!!!!!!!!!

[Passatier3]

Thanks for the feedback guys. I've already put in a call to discuss with the service manager and ask to try a demo. so like minds there.

Interesting what you say about once it's got a few miles on perhaps somethings gone a bit slack or out of adjustment. Only done 21K. but perhaps that's the case. What prompted me to post is that it's only lately that it's really started to niggle me. I've lived with/dealt with the idiosycrasies of the DSG in the past but lately it does seem to have got worse. Like to think of myself as a good smooth driver (well I am a bloke) and ride bikes as well so it's not my driving style and that's why I'm annoyed when something's not performing as it should.

Apart from the basics I don't know much about the mechanics of the DSG - what can go out of adjustment?

By the way it's a CR - the turbo lag is much less than the PD I had before but I kind of liked the rush when the turbo kicked in and the car felt quicker. The lag could be dealt with better with a manual. Perhaps one reason they altered the characteristics with the CR to make it more linear was to suit the DSG?

[Passatier3]

The Fingers

Not waffle mate - some useful comments there which I recognise with my car.

Particularly what you say about "........the jerkyness appears as it dumps the clutch with a snatch" as that is exactly one of my car's symptoms and the most annoying. But I've only done 21K. and the car's rarely loaded, most miles done with only me in it so wouldn't have expected worn clutch packs. Worth mentioning it to the dealer though. Seems worse when the cars warm and especially in town use.

Didn't know about getting it to creep in first in Sport - useful that as I've found it creeping too fast in second sometimes in heavy traffic. Mind you I've only tried the car in Sport once and never again! Holding onto the gears far too much and wouldn't go into top even when going over 70 along a dual carriageway with the result that the engine sounded like a bag of spanners from being revved so highly - better suited to a sweet revving petrol engine methinks or if a quick getaway is needed.

Can you change between Sport and Drive whilst on the move? Been awhile since I read the handbook.

[darksprout]

I went into the dealer today for a fault reset. When I arrived they informed me that there was a recall on the DPF sensor which they did this morning. Also did a full health check and tell me it needs the software on the DSG updating, and maybe a new mechatronic control unit. Im impressed with their service so far (was first time in the new (used) car) and as its all under warranty its good on the card too :)
I completely agree with the comments about jerkiness when pulling off in D, S, R and with/without auto-hold on. Since picking up the car that has been my only dissapointment and having read this and the dealers comments today I am hoping it will be fixed when I book it in. The car has only done 20k so I doubt its wear and tear on anything.
As for Sport mode. Its great when you want more urgent kickdown although only at the lower speeds (no higher than 60ish) as D is better at faster speeds (eg motorway overtaking). I do think that redlining a Diesel is generally unkind but thats what Sport mode seems to like to do. It sounds harsh but maybe VW designed it all to work like that.

[rapport25]

The Fingers

Can you change between Sport and Drive whilst on the move? Been awhile since I read the handbook.

Yes you sure can. I will flick it into sport on fast b roads and use the paddles for a faster gear change. Great down country lanes!!!!

Only problem when using the paddles from a standing start is that the dsg can tend to change up gear quicker than yourself :biglaugh:

95% of the time I leave it in D. 5% of the time I like to play.

[The Fingers]

The Fingers

Not waffle mate - some useful comments there which I recognise with my car.

Particularly what you say about "........the jerkyness appears as it dumps the clutch with a snatch" as that is exactly one of my car's symptoms and the most annoying. But I've only done 21K. and the car's rarely loaded, most miles done with only me in it so wouldn't have expected worn clutch packs. Worth mentioning it to the dealer though. Seems worse when the cars warm and especially in town use.

Didn't know about getting it to creep in first in Sport - useful that as I've found it creeping too fast in second sometimes in heavy traffic. Mind you I've only tried the car in Sport once and never again! Holding onto the gears far too much and wouldn't go into top even when going over 70 along a dual carriageway with the result that the engine sounded like a bag of spanners from being revved so highly - better suited to a sweet revving petrol engine methinks or if a quick getaway is needed.

Can you change between Sport and Drive whilst on the move? Been awhile since I read the handbook.


At about 20K is when i started to mention to the service department - 'My DSG is not behaving all the time' - this is when i had the first 'Reset To Default' ie back to being new again this meant it felt different - could have been just serviced feeling!!!

Mine used to stall sometimes when going from reverse to drive or visa versa (probably about once or twice a month) as soon as i mentioned this at the next service 40K they booked it for software update - this helped a little then 5K later stalling came back with a vengence and mechadoodoo ordered and fitted (two days in a rollerskate polo)

i do 'D' to 'S' quite a lot whilst on the move, when in 'S' try lifting off the gas a little at about 3200 rpm it will then change up. its the harsh change down again mid corner when i am happy with 3rd and it thinks there is still 500 rpm available in 2nd yet.........SCREAMING PD

Oh yes......... one major symptom of Mechadoodoo issues seemed to be holding the gear at rev out (4500 ish) for a second or two too long( come on all you that thrash their DSG know what i mean:D), since change it doesnt hold rev out at all.

I am a firm believer that the PD needs a good beasting every now and again to keep all the crud from building up, mine gets more now than again, it hits 4K+ all the time, as have all my VW's to date, never killed one yet!!!! (my current 140 DSG is quicker than a mates 170 manual Golf:biglaugh:, his golf was a 60 year old service engineers car for 70K driven like a 60 year old service engineer!!)

at approaching 60K box is a bit well - DIFFERENT FROM A MANUAL BUT DIFFERENT FROM A SLUSH BOX AUTO.... tempremental like a good woman. but the engine is a PEACH (reminds me of the last film i watched ---- Peach i could eat peach for hours)

I think you hurt them more by driving them like 'miss daisy'

you read on the internet about issues with VW's nowadays but i have found all mine pretty much bullet proof, even when they do get issues they limp home!!! I can remember driving a MK4 Golf GT 130 from Bath to Manchester with a goosed Air Flow Meter - that was an experience it was like diving a golf that had had a engine transplant with a moped!!! BUT IT GOT ME HOME, bugger me (not litterally) turned the engine off and 10 mins later the air flow meter came back on line (typical) and it was like a rocket again.

[Passatier3]

Well chaps, good news, I have a fault!!

Took it to the dealers this morning and despite a good run to warm the transmission fully, sod's law kicked in and it behaved itself, though the tech. did note a slight clunk now and then (not as bad as it can be though) in low gears and some uneveness when slowing up.

Diagnostics showed that the mechatronic unit is faulty. I'd have thought that VW would have sorted this problem by now, must be costing them a fortune? Cost of unit and the car for two days - how much?

But as I said, good news that there is actually a fault and under warranty.

Of course as I pulled away from the dealers - yep, clunk and jerkiness!!

Rest of journey to work was fine and a joy - no wonder we have such love/hate relationships with our cars!

Thanks guys for your help and comments - always good to go to the dealers well informed.

[DSG4ME]

@ Darksprouts

yours should be a CR if it's a highline mate.

Like the name btw :approve:

[Passatier3]

If you do a search for 'mechatronic' here on the B6 forum you'll find others have mentioned this many times before, and you may gain some useful information from some of the threads.

Did the search and read a lot of the posts.

Thanks that was really useful and convinced me that the DSG wasn't performing as it should. Having read the posts I think if I was buying now, because of the issues with the DSG I'd go manual. Can't wait now to have the work done, though it is pretty much behaving itself at the moment and so is nice to drive.

As has often been said though, forums can sometimes give the wrong impression as owners with problems are more likely to post. Would be interesting to know what VAG figures are for problem DSGs against number of units sold.

Was going to keep at end of finance in 12 months or so time but maybe if I decide on a keeper I'l go for a manual again then. I'll be torn between manual and DSG though as when the latter is working correctly they are great. For peace of mind I can always take out an extended warranty of course.

Who knows then though, a new Passat must be due soon? Have to say though personally I like the look of the existing car and not overkeen on the new corporate front on the Golf etc. which will no doubt figure on a new Passat.

[DSG4ME]

Bear this in mind about a manual...

DMF and clutch, the way this is right now, an owner with a car he's going to put 120k on can expect these parts to be replaced twice, this is at a VW cost of £1500 or £900 Indy each time.

[Passatier3]

I know clutches aren't without their problems but it's more unlikely and at least it's more in the hands (well feet!) of the user.

They are much more simple and are tried and tested technology. I've never had a new clutch on a modern car, I'm not hard on clutches anyway.

Used to have to replace them in my younger days in Minis and Marinas etc. but that was usual, along with replacing exhausts every couple of years.

Clutches are cheaper than a DSG anyway. How much will it cost to get the clutch packs changed and how long are they expected to last and then there's the mechatronic unit.

Went DSG as new car and had the warranty.

[DSG4ME]

I know clutches aren't without their problems but it's more unlikely and at least it's more in the hands (well feet!) of the user.

They are much more simple and are tried and tested technology. I've never had a new clutch on a modern car, I'm not hard on clutches anyway.

Used to have to replace them in my younger days in Minis and Marinas etc. but that was usual, along with replacing exhausts every couple of years.

Clutches are cheaper than a DSG anyway.


It's not the clutch that goes, it's the DMF, it's a poor design, and affects all cars fitted with one, not only VW's.

[logiclee]

I had a tdci Mondeo that had a failed DMF at 50k miles but replaced under warranty. My wifes 1.9pd engined Fabia started with DMF rattle/rumble at 30k miles but now at 40k miles it hasn't got any worse but it's quite annoying.
DMF failure is a really big issue on the caravan forums so it seems the DMF struggles with high torque especially under load.

Cheers
Lee

[Passatier3]

It's not the clutch that goes, it's the DMF, it's a poor design, and affects all cars fitted with one, not only VW's.

DMF - didn't know about this but do now, having done a search! Something else that manufacturers have introduced and can't get right despite the millions they spend on design and testing :mad:

One of my mates won't have any truck with new bikes and cars. Has an original Mini and an Austin Healy Sprite - his view is that if he had a new/newish car it would soon just be an old car which is difficult or in some cases impossible to work on unlike his old motors.

I'm starting to come around to his way of thinking!

[Europa25]

Great thread, and something i have thought about recently!

About 2 years ago, a car hit mine - a silver passat.
On putting it in the garage, my car insurance gave me 3 weeks free car hire - they gave me a punto, i said no!
When i went back, they said 'take this for christmas and new year, it's all we've got' - brand new silver passat!

10 months later, i wanted to change the car and get my first auto - everything pointed to vw diesels and something i'd never heard of - DSG.

By chance i looked at my local VW dealer, and they had just knocked £1500 off a beautiful 55 2.0 SE DSG , V low mileage and it's with me 20 months later.

I love it, and have found the relationship between driver and gearbox has to be instinctive and mutual!

The worst thing i find is when you are at say 10-15mph at a roundabout and want to get away - sometimes it has a good 'think' and then goes into warp factor which is annoying for a second then terrifying if you don't throttle back!

I've learn't how to read it and drive on.
The pure power and quietness are worth the couple of quirks to me.

If there are any reliability probs, i think VW would have been better leaving the +/- manual change out, and i don't think Sport mode is needed either - there is plenty of meaninful and useful torque at very low revs negating the screaming sport mode!

I'd love to drive a passat petrol DSG to compare, but i find what mine does is good enough and more :D

[Passatier3]

Agree with you about the island thing and also happens when slowing and turning into a T junction - with the latter it drops into second with a consequential rise in revs whereas in a manual I'd stay in third.

The DSG has to do this of course, especially at islands because of the turbo-lag (less with CR) and loss of acceleration just when you need it.

In a manual, if you remained in third and found yourself floundering as another car bears down on you, you could always dip the clutch to get the revs up and away you go. Obviously a DSG can't do this and so be sure of providing sufficient acceleration is has to change down.

T junctions aren't a problem as once changed down to second I just ease the throttle back on to make it smoother. Islands as has been said are a different matter as you don't normally have much time to faff about and just have to boot it which results in the sudden change down, rapid acceleration and high revs.

I can also live with these traits though - once the jerkiness has been sorted I'll be a happy bunny again.

Can't agree with you about leaving the manual mode out though - that's one of the attractions of DSG and works really well, especially in the higher gears - without that I wouldn't have even considered a DSG as I've never been an "auto" man. Sport mode I'm not bothered about as IMO doesn't suit a diesel though other guys like it. I don't think the DSG having a manual mode is the reason for the reliability problems?

[rapport25]

Great thread, and something i have thought about recently!

About 2 years ago, a car hit mine - a silver passat.
On putting it in the garage, my car insurance gave me 3 weeks free car hire - they gave me a punto, i said no!
When i went back, they said 'take this for christmas and new year, it's all we've got' - brand new silver passat!

10 months later, i wanted to change the car and get my first auto - everything pointed to vw diesels and something i'd never heard of - DSG.

By chance i looked at my local VW dealer, and they had just knocked £1500 off a beautiful 55 2.0 SE DSG , V low mileage and it's with me 20 months later.

I love it, and have found the relationship between driver and gearbox has to be instinctive and mutual!

The worst thing i find is when you are at say 10-15mph at a roundabout and want to get away - sometimes it has a good 'think' and then goes into warp factor which is annoying for a second then terrifying if you don't throttle back!

I've learn't how to read it and drive on.
The pure power and quietness are worth the couple of quirks to me.

If there are any reliability probs, i think VW would have been better leaving the +/- manual change out, and i don't think Sport mode is needed either - there is plenty of meaninful and useful torque at very low revs negating the screaming sport mode!

I'd love to drive a passat petrol DSG to compare, but i find what mine does is good enough and more :D

The island get away:D or as I call it russian roulette will the car hit me or will the dsg find a gear in time!!!!:biglaugh::biglaugh:

When it goes its amazing!!!99% of the time its in D on the odd occasion its in sport. I tend to use the paddles a bit more which works great!!!

I also agree with a previous post use it in sport for stop start traffic as D tends to change to 2nd far to quick and the car hunts a little.

I to would love to drive the petrol dsg as sport mode does not suit the diesel engine.

Thats my bit.

Rappy.

Just curious how long will the dsg box last compared to a manual? Any ideas guys?.

[fahad]

Hi you may have got to vw dealers and tell them that i whould like my gearbox software upgraded. There a new software for the DSG boxes.

[Europa25]

Cheers for that fahad, i don't know if mine has ever had a software upgrade !

Has anyone had any problems with DSG software upgrades, as i'm sure i read a thread on here a few months back where someone said it made the 'pause and think' 'endearing quality' even worse ?!

I'm going to have a word with them and see what they suggest - as long as it's not just taking my money!

[Passatier3]

Hi you may have got to vw dealers and tell them that i whould like my gearbox software upgraded. There a new software for the DSG boxes.

I'm assuming that they will do that as part of changing the mechatronic unit?

But it's always dangerous to assume!

[rapport25]

I'm assuming that they will do that as part of changing the mechatronic unit?

But it's always dangerous to assume!

Not always:Blush2:. There is software updates for the DSG I believe 3 since it was launced. Hth.

[The Fingers]

well some of you may have read about my dsg on here but there is more.............


Had software updates and a new mechatronic from say april - may this year (for jerkyness, stalling etc etc) well i told them that the gremlins had returned on friday. They then told me that there was another new mechatronic unit aug 10 issue (also new software available aug 10 issue, with different part no from the may issue one) and they had sent a report to Germany and would ring me next week once they had run the diagnostics in Germany to book in for a new mechadoodoo fitted. Anyway he rang me on Monday to inform me that Zee Germans have been in touch to say that they should replace the whole box and mechatronic unit. Smith Knight Faye (hyde) are now just awaiting a delivery date for the new box and gubbings and will be in touch in a week to arrange time for replacement.

The box that is in at the moment is as far as i can tell about the same as most others on here (jerky and a little undecided) so i thought the actual gear box was fine just the control unit a little bit out of sync again.

I was actually thinking of asking if i could have the original part they take out (it is mine) i could then sell it as i have been driving it like this for 60,000 miles and as far as i can say is that it is fine!!! I bet they say NO

Once the box is replaced (should be within two weeks) i will report in on what the new issue one is like.

I think if your mind is convinced that your box is not right keep on at them and they WILL replace it eventually. I havent really be moaning that much just commenting and asking them to look at it when service time comes around.

Are they opening a can of worms, will it ever be the same again? I will wait and see, i am expecting it to be exactly the same as it is now.

[Passatier3]

Makes me wonder if they will ever get the DSG right? I'm leaning ever more back to a manual for the next car even if there can be flywheel issues.

I'm still waiting for a call from the garage to say the mechatronic unit is in - must be nearly 3 weeks now. At least I should get the latest unit and software!

I'll give them a chase next week once I've taken my son back to uni. - I prefer to use my estate for that job!

[Reynger]

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[Teflon]

We've got three DSG's in the family and although I'm a great fan it's not a patch on the smoothness of the belt-drive multitronic gearbox I had in the Audi. Pity that the multitronic got such a poor reputation for reliability.

All 3 DSG's have different characters and the one in the diesel Passat is the one I like least. It lacks smoothness and finess from a standing start or through the lower gears. It's had the software update and is about to get a new mechatronic under warranty.

I also recognise the hesitation that some posters mention. It can be a bit embarassing at roundabouts in the Golf when it is creeping off and then suddenly squirts away like I've nicked it.

Overall, I'd never have a manual again and have avoided buying other (more reliable) makes such as Honda because I can't entertain the thought of an old fashioned slush box auto. DSG will be perfect in about 10 years time when they iron out the wrinkles and get the reliability sorted.

[rapport25]

We've got three DSG's in the family and although I'm a great fan it's not a patch on the smoothness of the belt-drive multitronic gearbox I had in the Audi. Pity that the multitronic got such a poor reputation for reliability.

All 3 DSG's have different characters and the one in the diesel Passat is the one I like least. It lacks smoothness and finess from a standing start or through the lower gears. It's had the software update and is about to get a new mechatronic under warranty.

I also recognise the hesitation that some posters mention. It can be a bit embarassing at roundabouts in the Golf when it is creeping off and then suddenly squirts away like I've nicked it.

Overall, I'd never have a manual again and have avoided buying other (more reliable) makes such as Honda because I can't entertain the thought of an old fashioned slush box auto. DSG will be perfect in about 10 years time when they iron out the wrinkles and get the reliability sorted.

I love the dsg box :approve::approve:. But I will be getting a bmw auto x5 next year. I have heard these are great boxes but not as good as the dsg. Thats the only downsdie in my opinion getting an auto :(

[djbrightman]

I'm still waiting for a call from the garage to say the mechatronic unit is in - must be nearly 3 weeks now. At least I should get the latest unit and software!


Any progress on this? Keen to hear the outcome!

[darksprout]

I have had the software update but it made no difference so I am getting the mechatronic unit changed under warranty. It will be fitted on the 19th so I will update this thread then :)

[Teflon]

We've got three DSG's in the family and although I'm a great fan it's not a patch on the smoothness of the belt-drive multitronic gearbox I had in the Audi. Pity that the multitronic got such a poor reputation for reliability.

All 3 DSG's have different characters and the one in the diesel Passat is the one I like least. It lacks smoothness and finess from a standing start or through the lower gears. It's had the software update and is about to get a new mechatronic under warranty.

I also recognise the hesitation that some posters mention. It can be a bit embarassing at roundabouts in the Golf when it is creeping off and then suddenly squirts away like I've nicked it.

Overall, I'd never have a manual again and have avoided buying other (more reliable) makes such as Honda because I can't entertain the thought of an old fashioned slush box auto. DSG will be perfect in about 10 years time when they iron out the wrinkles and get the reliability sorted.
Update on the Passat

Just had a new mechatronic fitted under warranty and it is like a completely different car. The jerkiness and difficulty in driving smoothly was there from the day I picked it up new from the dealer so I just assumed DSG wasn't a good match with the diesel. I put up with this for 2 years, it never got better or worse. Now it's almost silky smooth.

My advice - if you have any jerkiness at all at low speed or if the take up from a standstill isn't always smooth get straight off to the dealer before the warranty runs out!

[rapport25]

Update on the Passat

Just had a new mechatronic fitted under warranty and it is like a completely different car. The jerkiness and difficulty in driving smoothly was there from the day I picked it up new from the dealer so I just assumed DSG wasn't a good match with the diesel. I put up with this for 2 years, it never got better or worse. Now it's almost silky smooth.

My advice - if you have any jerkiness at all at low speed or if the take up from a standstill isn't always smooth get straight off to the dealer before the warranty runs out!

Thats how mine is :D. Its a fantastic gearbox.

[Passatier3]

Mechatronic unit has now been replaced - 4 weeks rather than the 7 to 10 days estimated, but it's done.

20 mile run in to work this morning and I'm a happy bunny again :D

Pulls away smoothly, no kangarooing or jerkiness and the gear changes are barely noticeable. I did pick up on a slight clunk when changing down to 2nd, but it's only very slight and I can live with that. It pulled up to my garage door, drive is slightly inclined, as sweet as a nut, no lurching now.

The car feels tauter now and was a joy to drive this morning.

I'm definitely keeping now, especially having looked at pictures of the new Passat last night!

[rapport25]

Mechatronic unit has now been replaced - 4 weeks rather than the 7 to 10 days estimated, but it's done.

20 mile run in to work this morning and I'm a happy bunny again :D

Pulls away smoothly, no kangarooing or jerkiness and the gear changes are barely noticeable. I did pick up on a slight clunk when changing down to 2nd, but it's only very slight and I can live with that. It pulled up to my garage door, drive is slightly inclined, as sweet as a nut, no lurching now.

The car feels tauter now and was a joy to drive this morning.

I'm definitely keeping now, especially having looked at pictures of the new Passat last night!

Pleased they got it sorted for you :beerchug:. I love the dsg box :approve:.

[a6 geezer]

Hi to all! Please disregard my username 'a6 geezer' as I've recently sold that motor and got myself a Passat 2 litre tdi 170 sport DSG. Yep, I've just noticed similar problems with my box, starting with a definite slight shuddering during creeping in traffic in first gear, and only first gear, jerkiness when pulling away unless I'm very careful and smooth (why should I be, it's an ''auto'' of sorts). The car's still under warranty, just, so apart from the obvious suggestion to go see VW any other would be greatly appreciated. Funny that my old A6 Multitronic had a box problem too, which was fixed by Hardy Engineering in Leatherhead and had worked well since for the last 2 years of my ownership. Again, any suggestions greatly welcome. Thanks.

[rapport25]

Hi A6 geezer welcome :beerchug: or should that read B6 geezer :D:D.

A great tip a while back when in stop start traffic drop it into sport as you will find in D it will change to 2nd very quickly.

Does yours have the paddles? They are great!!!!.

Hth,

Rappy.

[Teflon]

Hi to all! Please disregard my username 'a6 geezer' as I've recently sold that motor and got myself a Passat 2 litre tdi 170 sport DSG. Yep, I've just noticed similar problems with my box, starting with a definite slight shuddering during creeping in traffic in first gear, and only first gear, jerkiness when pulling away unless I'm very careful and smooth (why should I be, it's an ''auto'' of sorts). The car's still under warranty, just, so apart from the obvious suggestion to go see VW any other would be greatly appreciated. Funny that my old A6 Multitronic had a box problem too, which was fixed by Hardy Engineering in Leatherhead and had worked well since for the last 2 years of my ownership. Again, any suggestions greatly welcome. Thanks.
I put up with similar situation for two years and was convinced it was a minor engine issue, not a gearbox problem. Bear in mind that I've got DSG on the Golf and the wife's car, so I had something to compare against. I recognise the slight shuddering and lack of smoothness you have. It was like it straight from the factory.

There's a huge thread about DSG Multitronic problems on the UKgolf site http://uk-mkivs.net/ including some diagnostic info.

I turned up at the dealer with a written description of all my symptoms expecting them to do an ECU update or maybe find an injector fault. Straightaway they diagnosed mechatronic. Nine weeks later (!!! :mad::() the part arrived and it is now like a different car. Not quite as smooth as an Audi multitronic, but the difference is so small that I only notice if I'm looking for it.

Go straight to dealer. Do not pass go. Get it sorted before the warranty runs out! It's about £1500 if you have to pay yourself.

[johnloaderuk]

Looks like someone has started this DSG site to help others.

http://www.dsgproblems.co.uk/

[The Fingers]

well just got mine back after having the gear box replaced (59,500 miles)

brief on work done (DSG ONLY), this is a feb 2008 (57) 2.0 TDI 140 SE - 20K software update to cure stalling, worked a bit, 40K new mechadoodoo to cure various issues, stalling, jerky etc etc (you all know the script) demons return at about 55K, inspected at service and report re sent to Germany - solution complete new box and mechadoodoo completed at 59,500. Now apart from the new warranty for the replacement part (box and mechadoodoo) I am on my own in 500 miles. Hope thats the last of the issues, it has to last me now until feb 11 then NEW PASSAT

i have driven it about 20 miles so far and have to say its a different car.

the lag has gone from initial take off (ie the gas......wait for it......wait for it.........BOOM), no snatching into gear, manual down changes now silky smooth even 3rd to 2nd.

It feels tight again (possible new box) the issue was getting used to the brake pedal again after driving a 1.4 polo for the last few days. First touch - head butt steering wheel (oops them passat brakes are good)

it feels very different from when the first mechadoodoo was changed.

All its bad habits seem to have gone, even the difficult slow reversing back up an incline.

I have to say 'WELL DONE SMITH KNIGHT FAYE - HYDE' no question just sorted it every time. They even remember your name when you go to pick the car up. Not just one of them but all i have spoken to in service. I have had issues with the same franchise in stockport but hyde are faultless so far. Pleasure to deal with. Well done.

Will drive it a few hundred miles and then report again, but i would say if you have an iffy DSG then keep pushing them and they will eventually replace the thing. I think the fact that i have commented and asked for investigation at every service helped, they always agreed it was not completely right (dont get me wrong it was always drivable just tempremental) and tried a solution, then the solutions ran out and the last thing they could try was a new box.