Audi RS3 Transfer Case Failures due to Bearing Noise and Leaks

Experiencing issues with your Audi RS3's transfer case can be both frustrating and concerning. The transfer case, integral to your vehicle's all-wheel-drive system, ensures optimal power distribution to all wheels. A malfunction can compromise performance and safety.

Common Symptoms of Transfer Case Failure

Owners have reported several indicators of a failing transfer case:

• Fluid Leaks: Noticing fluid beneath your vehicle could signify a leaking transfer case. Such leaks have been documented among RS3 owners, leading to potential component damage if unaddressed.

• Unusual Noises: Grinding or whining sounds, especially during acceleration or deceleration, may point to internal issues within the transfer case.

• Vibration: Excessive vibrations, particularly under the driver's seat, can indicate problems with the transfer case bearings or other internal components.

Repair and Replacement Options

Addressing transfer case issues promptly is crucial to prevent further damage. At Col Voss Automatic Transmissions, we specialize in diagnosing and repairing such problems. Our approach includes:

• Comprehensive Diagnostics: Utilizing advanced diagnostic tools, we accurately identify the root cause of the malfunction.

• In-House Reconditioning: Our skilled technicians rebuild transmissions and transfer cases on-site, ensuring quality control and reducing vehicle downtime.

• Preventative Maintenance: Regular servicing can detect early signs of wear, preventing costly repairs down the line.

Reconditioned Audi RS3 Transfer Case Assembly

Why Choose Us?

With over two decades of experience, our team, led by Rhys, is dedicated to providing top-notch service. We pride ourselves on our modern, well-equipped workshop and commitment to customer satisfaction.

If you're experiencing issues with your Audi RS3's transfer case, don't hesitate to contact us. Early intervention can save you time and money, ensuring your vehicle remains in optimal condition.

Volkswagen Audi DQ381 dual clutch transmission diagnosis and repair

Volkswagen and Audi vehicles have been fitted with Dual Clutch transmissions since 2005 the original 6 speed wet clutch DQ250 (02E) was a very reliable unit for a generation 1 design. Soon followed in 2007 with the larger DQ500 (0BH / 0BT) which has higher torque capability’s. Then a smaller unit arrived in 2008 the DQ200 (0AM) which unfortunately was their most unreliable when companied to the larger unit. Then where was a large gap of 10 years until a new design was released the DQ381 (0GC) which is a redesign of the highly reliable DQ500.

Has Volkswagen finally nailed their DSG design

With the transmission in pieces on our bench one would think so as it closely resembles the DQ250 and DQ500 however it has one design change with the addition of an extra pump assembly. Due to space restrictions there is a very small pump which has been added to allow the transmission to maintain pressure during the vehicles start stop operation. The pump is made up of a hydraulic gear system powered by an electric motor the design is very similar to the DQ200 mechatronic pump. Yes that is right the unreliable 0AM unit has left its mark.

The curse of the DQ200

We are only just starting to see vehicles with DQ380 failures at the time of writing this post which is due to 2017 build vehicle coming out of manufacturer warranty. Some customers are receiving goodwill repair from the manufacturer some are not. We have been working on a list of repair procedures for faults we have seen in our workshop. Some faults are related to the start stop pump some are related to the mechatronic unit.

Known fault codes we have been able to rectify

P2716 / 10908 - PRESSURE CONTROL SOLENOID 4 ELECTRICAL MALFUNCTION
P175D / 10693 - CLUTCH 1 OPENS UNINTENTIONALLY
P176E / 10694 - CLUTCH 2 OPENS UNINTENTIONALLY
P1898 / 10895 - CLUTCH 1 FUNCTION RESTRICTION
P0810 / 23182 - CLUTCH POSITIONING CONTROL ERROR
P072C / 10697 - GEAR 1 NOT SELECTABLE
P072D / 10698 - GEAR 2 NOT SELECTABLE
P176C / 10727 - GEAR SELECTOR 3 CANNOT BE REGULATED
P148A / 10928 - MAIN PRESSURE ADAPTATION OFFSET UPPER LIMIT EXCEEDED
P0C29 / 35494 - CONTROL CIRCUIT FOR AUX TRANS FLUID PUMP IMPLAUSIBLE SIGNAL

So if you are having a problem with your Volkswagen or Audi vehicle and want to have us carry out a diagnosis and quote please call us today 02 9907 4486 or click to Contact Us

Mazda 3 U0101 Lost COMMUNICATION with TCM repair Sydney

Your driving along and suddenly the A/T light flashes up on your dashboard, you feel a clunk from the driveline. Don’t panic the light means there is a Diagnostic Trouble Code that has been logged within your vehicle control modules. Now you will notice the vehicle is down on power and not shifting gears, this is due to the vehicle now being in limp home mode.

What is limp home mode?

When the Mazda transmission control module enters limp home mode it switches the transmission into 3rd gear full time. This is why you feel the reduced power and the clunk of the gear change. It is not recommended to drive long distances in this mode hence the name “limp home” if you are near your home and the terrain is relatively flat it will be fine. If you are kilometers from anywhere pull over safely and cycle the ignition to see if the fault is intermittent and the light will self clear to allow you to continue home. If the light does not clear and your vehicle is permanently in limp mode you can call your road assistance and also call our office to arrange for your vehicle to be brought in for a diagnosis and quote.

Lost in communication with THE Transmission Control Module

Customers are always surprised when there is an electrical fault with their vehicle but think of our mobile phones most of us update them every 2-3 years. When compared to electrical components on your motor vehicles the modules are pretty reliable. One common issue we find on the Mazda 3 5 speed automatic transmission is a diagnostic code in the ECM and ABS modules which points to no communication between the Transmission Control Module.

What is a U code? U0101 - Lost Communication with TCM

Diagnostic codes normally have a letter prefix at the beginning and in this case, it is a U. This means the code is related to a communication issue across the vehicle’s communication network. Think of your home internet network if there was an issue between your Home PC and your Router if your dog pulled the ethernet cable it would show a communication issue on your home network.

Diagnosing your Mazda U0101 code.

A full diagnostic on the modules will need to be carried out with our diagnostic scanner to confirm the trouble codes in your modules. Then looking up the wiring diagrams for your vehicle we can then confirm the modules are powered and also have the correct communication signals being sent between each other. This will allow us to narrow the fault within your vehicle and in our previous experience it normally points to the TCM itself.

Replacing your TCM

In the early days, we recommended supplying a new genuine TCM however Mazda has increased the price over the years and it is now very expensive. The more cost effective repair is to supply and fit an exchange recondition module.

Not all modules are the same.

The exchange option is by far the best value as it will have you back on the road sooner if the module is in stock. Due to the different variants of Mazda’s, we need to match your existing module so it works with the correct software. luckily we can stock a variety or modules that we can match to your vehicle’s VIN number.

Affected Mazda Models

• Mazda3 BL Neo 2.0L Petrol Sedan/Hatch 2008-2013

• Mazda3 BL Maxx 2.0L Petrol Sedan/Hatch 2008-2013

• Mazda3 BL SP20 2.0L Petrol Sedan/Hatch 2008-2013

• Mazda3 BL SP25 2.5L Petrol Sedan/Hatch 2008-2013

Affected Mazda Transmission

• 5-speed Ford FNR5/Mazda FS5A-EL automatic

PLEASE CALL AND MAKE YOUR BOOKING TODAY 02 9907 4486

Subaru Forester XV Outback Warning Lights on Dash Board

Subaru warning lights on your dash can be very confusing due to multiple lights showing at the same time. The software engineers for some reason have programmed multiple modules to log the same fault which causes that module’s waring light to aluminate. In most cases, the vehicle will still drive normally however if you do feel there is a drivability issue it is recommended to pull over and cycle the ignition off and on to see if the vehicle returns to normal.

Deciphering the Engine, ABS and A/T light will require a full scan of all your vehicle’s control modules which will then show which module has the fault. With this diagnostic code information, we are able to look up our own repair procedures and quote the work required.

Common fault codes in the Subaru CVT transmissions.

• P0970 - Pressure Control Solenoid “C“ or Transfer Solenoid Circuit (low)

• P0971 - Pressure Control Solenoid “C“ or Transfer Solenoid Circuit (High)

• P2763 - Torque Converter Clutch Pressure Control Solenoid Control Circuit (High)

• P2764 - Torque Converter Clutch Pressure Control Solenoid Control Circuit (Low)

Currently, if your vehicle is logging any of the above codes, Subaru only sells a complete valve body assembly which in Australian dealerships had a list price of around $5000 AUD. Luckily we are able to source individual solenoids through the aftermarket industry which means the repair cost is greatly reduced. We recommend replacing both solenoids at the same time as they are very common to fail at similar times.

Call to make your booking today 02 9907 4486

Toyota Hilux & Prado A343F Automatic transmission

Toyota vehicles are known for their reliability, the Aisin designed 4 speed Automatic found in the Toyota Hilux and Prado is a proven unit that has been slowly developed from the late 1980s. The A343F which is a 4WD version fitted from 2005 to 2015 can take quite a beating but it has one issue that can bring the whole house of cards tumbling down.

Keeping its cool while under under pressure

The automatic transmission uses a small bodied torque converter to generate heat and put the factory cooling system under stress. Once the automatic transmission fluid is under stress the standard cooling system can’t maintain the correct fluid temperature, with the increased ATF temperature the converter can be overstressed to the point of failing the lock-up clutch plate and the internal bearings. The debris will then make its way through the pump and into the rest of the transmission causing a complete automatic transmission failure.

Navigating the debris field

Most often by the time you notice something is wrong, it’s too late and the metal and clutch debris has already done its damage. The three main components that are affected are the torque converter, transmission pump assembly and the valve body assembly.

The Torque converter can be pushed to the point where the core will be destroyed and it can’t be reconditioned. The Pump will also be damaged to the point the gear clearance will be excessive or the converter neck bush will tear itself apart requiring a complete pump replacement. The valve body will get full of debris and chew up the valve bores causing cross leaks that may not be able to be reamed and new oversized valves fitted.

Get it right the first time

Our rebuild procedure for this transmission has been a continuous development since 1998 which has allowed us to increase the reliability of a high kilometer unit. With the addition of an extra external automatic transmission oil cooler and the addition of a transmission service added to the vehicle service schedule. This makes the A343F unit one of the more reliable automatic transmissions fitted to a dual cab ute or SUV wagon.

See Also…

Volkswagen 7 speed DSG Dual Clutch Diagnosis and Repair Sydney

Following on from our previous post in 2018 regarding the complete failure of the 7 speed DQ200 DSG Mechatronics Unit. We are starting to see harder to diagnose failures leaving customers frustrated as they loose confidence with their Volkswagen, Audi or Skoda vehicles. Since our last story we have been working hard to provide a diagnostic service that allows our technicians to pin point potential failing components.

Common drivability complaints we receive from our customers are:

• Delayed Drive Engagement after start up and possible P or D will flash on dash

• Slow up shifting through the gears when in drive where the engine will hold higher revs before the gear will change.

• Loss of Drive at a set of lights which requires the ignition to be turned off and on and it will drive fine again.

• Car wont start and is locked in park and selector wont move. You may also notice the P is not showing on the dash.

Your own customized diagnostic procedure

Our technicians use specialist scanning diagnostic equipment to log your vehicles live data which is then overlaid with a known good vehicles data to pin point the areas that will need attention. Your vehicle will then be retested with our technicians focusing on the data that was noted as potential issue. The live data results are then cross referenced with our own detailed repair procedures and we can then quote you on the required repair.

We dont always need vehicle diagnostic codes to diagnose and repair.

We often receive calls from clients who have experienced an issue and their regular independent repairer or dealership cant find anything wrong on a test drive or vehicle diagnostic scan. We take a different approach by creating our own data reports and repair procedures which dont rely on diagnostic trouble codes (DTC). Using the raw live data from the transmission control module (TCM) we can verify the data with a good known vehicles data. We basically create our own diagnostic code data when the original manufacture engineers had not foreseen the potential issue so no diagnostic code was written and entered into the modules software.

See also…

AUDI / VOLKSWAGEN 7SPD DSG LOSS OF DRIVE & REVERSE GEARS

Automatic Transmission Operating Fluid Temperatures

What is my Automatic Transmission operating temperature?

A question that gets asked the alot is what is the best temperature my automatic transmission should operate at? Most late model vehicles operate at 90°C - 95°C which is quite normal and what the transmission control module will operate its smoothest shift strategy. Now add our unique Australian climate and all your vehicle accessories then your GVM upgrades to allow that luxury touring van to be towed. Now where is our automatic transmission temperature operating at? there is also a head wind and a nice long incline and your asking yourself i wonder what my temps are sitting at now?

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Put simply if you googled “My transmission failed due to running to cold“ how many results would show up? I searched this and the only results where relayed to manual truck gearboxes that mainly operated in freezing temperatures and failures where due to being frozen. That aside late model vehicles do use shift strategies to adjust and monitor temps but what happens when temp get to high?

Below operating temperature shift strategy.

When an automatic transmission is cold the Transmission Control Module (TCM) firms the shift strategy to work the fluid harder to increase temperatures.

Operating temperature shift strategy.

The best shift feel which is maintained by the TCM focused on occupant comfort and fuel economy

Above operating temperature shift strategy.

The TCM will attempt to decrease engine torque, lower shift pressures and apply higher gears to decrease engine RPM.

The next problem is if you monitor your temps using a Engine Guard or Scan Gauge the Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) holds its heat due to the higher flashing point as compared to your engine coolant. This means your on the side of the road waiting for your vehicle to cool down for 1/2 hour - 1 hour which may only drop possibly 10°C ATF temp.

Do i fit an aftermarket external automatic transmission cooler?

I would first ask are you monitoring you automatic transmissions temperature? if you are and it is constantly around 100°C or more then i highly recommend fitting one. If you do not have a device monitoring your transmission temperature i would first invest in a monitoring device.

Will an aftermarket transmission cooler void my new car manufactures warranty?

In past experience it comes down to your local dealerships Service Manage and Advisors who make the call. We have sold cooler kits to dealerships who then fit them to vehicles under new car warranty and they where OK with it. Most people who fit a cooler during warranty period will have other accessories and modifications to the vehicle the dealer would worry about. In the worst case a dealership is trying to use the cooler to get out of a repair due to a failure. The issue is most likely a common and a few screen shots of the issue from facebook groups etc will set them straight. But who knows an aftermarket automatic transmission cooler could have prevented the failure in the first place.

The conclusion to the temperature debate.

The cooler the transmission the best shift strategy for heavy loads due to increased pressure on shifting and no reduction on engine torque. Lower operating temps mean longer lasting fluid and internal components increasing your transmissions life expectancy.

See Also…

Monitoring your Transmission Temperature

Fitting an External Automatic Transmission cooler

Servicing you Automatic Transmission

THERMOSTAT BY-PASS VALVE 6R80 RANGER BT-50 TRANSMISSION COOLER

The factory Mazda & Ford 6 speed automatic cooling system explained

Fitted to the Australian delivered Ford Ranger & Mazda BT-50 6 speed automatic transmissions is a transmission cooler thermostatic cooler by-pass valve. Located in the passengers side of the transmission housing under the valve body assembly. The Thermostatic Valve blocks the cooler flow until the desired operating temperature is reached. The spring will shrink allowing the sleeve to move up and open up the port to the cooler.

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Although shift quality is smoother when the transmission fluid is at operating temperature. The 6R80 transmission is known for debris from internal bushings and the torque converter wear which can cause the factory thermostat valve sleeve to stick and block the cooler port.

If the sleeve gets jammed the transmission will not flow any fluid through the factory heat exchanger cooling unit. Most warning system will not activate until the transmission fluid temperature reaches above 130c.

Blocking the factory by-pass area and giving full time cooler flow.

Available now is a unique full time flow valve allowing full time cooler flow and still the availability to have full time lubrication if the cooler becomes blocked or flow restricted. When fitted the average transmission fluid temperature is lowered meaning internal components are lubricated with lower temperature fluid.

The fluid will take longer to reach operating temperature but the benefit is a 5c - 7c degree drop in operating temperature. This allows less internal component wear and full time cooler flow allowing for easier fluid level correction.

The factory thermostatic valve increases the chance of an incorrect fluid level due to the transmission fluid required to reach operating temperature to allow cooler flow. With the full flow valve fitted checking the fluid level is easier and safer due to the lower temperature reducing the risk of personal injury.

Removing the factory heat exchanger and fitting an external transmission oil cooler will now receive full flow allowing for the added cooling efficacy of an air to oil cooler.

Fitting the valve will require the transmission sump and valve body assembly to be removed which require a new transmission sump gasket, filter, valve body to case plug, valve body top case block & valve body to case tubes.

Call us today to make a booking and get this valve fitted…

See Also…

• Servicing your Ford Ranger/Mazda BT-50 6 speed Automatic transmission

• Fitting and oil to air transmission fluid cooler to your Ford Ranger/Mazda BT-50

• Upgrading to the Billet 6R80 Lock Up Torque Converter before it to late.

Audi / Volkswagen 7spd DSG loss of drive & reverse gears

Volkswagen Audi & Skoda 7 speed 0AM DQ200 Mechatronics failure

In 2008 the release of the 7 speed dry clutch DSG transmission was fitted to lower torqued engines below 250NM. Known as the DQ200 or 0AM dual clutch transmission it is 23kg lighter than the 6 speed DQ250/02E wet clutch transmission.

The DQ200/0AM includes three main components the Dry Dual Clutch assembly, the mechatronics unit with it own oil supply and the main gearbox assembly. The gearbox when on its own works like a regular front wheel drive manual transmission.

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Servicing the 0AM Transmission

There is a schedule to change the fluid every 60,000kms or 48 Months, the bearings inside of the transmission are known to wear causing debris which can cause issues with the shift rail sensors. The dual clutch touch points can also be re learnt during a service procedure to help eliminate clutch wear due to clutch shuddering normally during the 2nd gear application.

Known Problems with the Mechatronics unit

The mechatronics unit is made up of 4 main components
No.1 The Control module with integrated sensors.
No.2 Internal electric oil pump
No.3 Apply pistons operated by solenoids
No.4 Pressurised accumulator.
The most common problem with the Mechatronic Unit is loss of drive & reverse and signs of green or blue fluid under the vehicle. If the transmission module is scanned the following codes maybe present.

• 006300 - Function Restriction due to Insufficient Pressure Build-Up – P189C
• 006079 – Hydraulic Pump – P17BF
• 17225 - Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch 1 - P0841

As the mechatronics unit is supplied by the dealer as a complete unit if any of the internal components fail the whole unit will need to be replaced.

Mechatroincs Unit Repair Available.

We can now offer our customers a repair option for the above failure saving customers up to $1000-$2000 is some cases. 

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Effected Models

To confirm your vehicle is fitted with a 7 speed DQ200 transmission look at your gear shifter it should have DSG imprinted into the chrome. Also if the vehicle is still driving the applied gears will display on your dash then counter the up shifts to 7th on a freeway.

• Audi A1
• Audi A3
• Skoda Fabia
• Skoda Octavia
• Volkwagen Caddy
• Volkswagen Golf
• Volkswagen Polo

Audi A S & Q Series 7 speed DSG transmission problems

Various Audi Models from 2010 on wards suffer from a VARIETY of symptoms of a faulty Automatic Transmission.

The 7 speed dual clutch automatic transmission known as the 0B5 unit, uses an internal mechatronics unit, components on this unit fail causing various problems. Loosing reverse gear or having it slip or shudder is a common issue. Using a diagnostic scan tool and live data information the internal components can be tested and checked. The internal dual clutch unit is common for failing causing internal gear selection problems also.

Known Symptoms of Failed Mechatronics Unit 

• Loss or Intermittent Reverse Gear.
• Engine Light due to Faulty Solenoids.
• Engine Light due to Faulty Speed Sensors.
• Rough Gear Shifts due to above faults.

Known Symptoms of Failed Dual Clutch Assembly

• Loss of Gears normally Reverse and all even numbered gears.
• Slipping or Shuddering of gears.
• Mechanical Disengagement of gears causing Engine light.
• Jolting of Gear Changes on up shifting and down shifting.

After diagnosis is complete we can determine the faulty components that need to be replaced. Using parts sourced directly from components manufactures rather than Audi spare parts we can carry out repairs rather than complete replacement of expensive components. Put simply rather than fitting a complete new mechatronics unit we can fit a new solenoids which could be a saving of 70% on the parts cost.   

0B5 Mechatronics Repair Kit

Effected Audi Vehicles from late 2008 onwards

• Audi A7 Quattro Petrol & Diesel Engine Vehicles
• Audi A8 Quattro Petrol & Diesel Engine Vehicles
• Audi Q5 QuattroPetrol & Diesel Engine Vehicles
• Audi S5 QuattroPetrol & Diesel Engine Vehicles

Related Links...

• Audi A7 Vehicle Details & Information
• Audi A8 Vehicle Details & Information
• Audi Q5 Vehicle Details & Information
• Audi 0B5 DSG Transmission Service Schedule 

BMW 6L45 Mechatronics Repair Kit 24607623883

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For a long time BMW have used General Motors automatic transmissions in various models.

One unit that seems popular is the GM 6L45E 6 Speed Automatic Transmission with integrated Mechatronics unit. Now this transmission is the little brother the 6L80E transmission commonly found in the Holden Commodores from 2006-ON. 

This design of the Automatic Transmission uses an internal Transmission Control Module and Solenoid Pack known as a Mechatronics. Like any transmission with solenoids they are known to have problems and require the mechatronics to be replaced due to the solenoids being part of and sealed in the mechatronics unit. One would think being of GM origins the replacement part would be cheap and interchangeable quite easy. Unfortunately this is not the case the unit is specifically designed for BMW software only and if you where to use a Holden Commodore unit the BMW software wont load.

Common SYMPTOMS of faulty units

• Drive ability shifting complaints mainly around 2nd - 3rd gear up shifts and also 4th - 3rd gear downshifts. 
• Communication codes between transmission control module, ABS module and engine control module.
• Transmission Solenoids codes.

Replacement mechatronics Units

To purchase a replacement Mechatronic unit from the BMW dealer can be expensive. We source our replacement genuine units directly from the manufacture warehouse which we can then code to suit our vehicles.  

related BMW Models...

BMW 1 Series (E82,E88) 128i Convertible 2006 - 2014
BMW 1 Series (E82,E88) 128i Coupe 2006 - 2014
BMW 3 Series (E21,E30,E36,E46,E90,E91,E92,E93) 323i Sedan 2006 - 2009
BMW 3 Series (E21,E30,E36,E46,E90,E91,E92,E93) 328i Convertible 2005 - 2010
BMW 3 Series (E21,E30,E36,E46,E90,E91,E92,E93) 328i Coupe 2005 - 2010
BMW 3 Series (E21,E30,E36,E46,E90,E91,E92,E93) 328i Sedan 2006 - 2009
BMW 3 Series (E21,E30,E36,E46,E90,E91,E92,E93) 328i Wagon 2004 - 2009
BMW 3 Series (E21,E30,E36,E46,E90,E91,E92,E93) 328xi Coupe 2005 - 2010
BMW 3 Series (E21,E30,E36,E46,E90,E91,E92,E93) 328xi Sedan 2006 - 2009
BMW 3 Series (E21,E30,E36,E46,E90,E91,E92,E93) 328xi Wagon 2006 - 2009
BMW X Series (E53,E70,E71,E83) X3 3.0i 2006 - 2011
BMW X Series (E53,E70,E71,E83) X3 3.0si 2006 - 2011

Hyundai i30 soft, harsh & flaring gear shifts 4 speed automatic

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Hyundai i30 2008 to 2012 - 4 Speed Automatic Transmissions with various shifting problems.

A common problem we see with the 4 speed Hyundai automatic transmissions is noticeably bad shift quality when vehicles reach 60,000 - 90,000 km's. Another sign of a problem is very dark transmission fluid which can be seen on the dip stick. 

The problem is located in the hydraulic brains of the automatic transmission which is called the valve body. The internal parts of this unit wear which require the valve body assembly to be replaced. We source new genuine units direct from Korea which also include the internal wiring harnesses. This can be a saving to our customers of 40-50% on parts if compared to purchasing locally.

Known Faulty Valve Body Unit Symptoms

• Delay into Reverse Gear.
• Flare/Soft Shift into 3rd Gear.
• Large Flare on 4-3 Downshift when around 80kms.
• Harsh Shifts into 2nd & 4th Gear.

A valve body replacement does not require a complete overhaul of the automatic transmission. The fluid will need to be flushed so the new valve body assembly can operate correctly. The transmission control module will also need the shift point adaptions reset using a factory quality scan tool. 

Affected Hyundai Models

• Hyundai Elantra SX (2006-2011) 2.0L Petrol
• Hyundai i30 SLX (2007-2012) 1.6L Diesel (Sedan/Wagon)
• Hyundai i30 SLX (2008-2012) 2.0L Petrol (Sedan/Wagon)
• Hyundai i30 SX (2008-2012) 1.6L Petrol (Sedan/Wagon)
• Hyundai i30 SX (2007-2012) 1.6L Diesel (Sedan/Wagon)
• Hyundai i30 SX (2008-2012) 2.0L Petrol (Sedan/Wagon)

Affected Kia Models

• Kia Cerato Coupe (2009-2012) 2.0L Petrol
• Kia Cerato S, Si (2009-2013) 2.0L Petrol (Sedan/Hatchback)
• Kia Cerato SLi, SRi (2009-2013) 2.0L Petrol (Sedan/Hatchback)

Related Links...

• Hyundai i30 History & Information
• Kia Cerato History & Information
• Hyundai A4CF1 Transmission Service Schedule
• Find Recommended Fluids

Driveline Maintenance and are you accountable?

Customers often ask should they service their transmission and or change the oil in there differential/transfer case in their vehicle?

My answer is simple if you’re asking that question I recommend you to get it done. Now if you’re in the category of customer who just drops off your vehicle to your local mechanic and hope all recommend fluid changes are behind done most likely they are to the manufactures recommendations. However manufactures now label driveline components fill for life and this means dealer mechanics & regular independent shops won’t change any driveline fluids.

What is Fill For Life?

Fill for life is a term used in late model motor vehicles when it comes to driveline components. Now to use an example I’ll use a 6 speed automatic transmission in a 2008 BMW. Now BMW have a vehicle which requires a 6 speed transmission but BMW don’t manufacture transmissions. This is where ZF a driveline component manufacture is approached to supply BMW with driveline components. This is where the sales pitch starts for ZF to win and secure the contract to supply.

Transmission Manufacture

• Can supply a sealed unit which is maintenance free during warranty period
• Less warranty concerns due to untrained/qualified workmanship
• Lower manufacturing costs of spare parts due to long jeopardy of units.
• Increased unit production due to increased demand on long life units.

Vehicle Manufacture

• A sealed unit which is maintenance free during warranty period
• Minimal spare parts stock due to maintenance free unit.
• Increased profits due to low cost units

Now for people who buy new vehicles and turn them over every 3-5 years this is all good news. This information it targeted to vehicle owners who plan to keep their vehicle more than 5 years and or who are the 2nd or 3rd owner of a late model vehicle.