A4 revving issue while at low speeds?

[wildcat333]

Hello. New member here, but just wanted to see if anyone has ever had an issue similar to mine. I just picked up this 08 CPO A4 (automatic) with 38,000 miles on it.

While driving in drive at a steady speed of approx 30 mph, the tachometer revs slightly up and down. I keep my foot steady, and am not accelerating or slowing down at all. I can visually see the tach move some (about 300 rpm's) up and down; and I can also hear a slight engine noise while it does this.

Any ideas? Is this normal, or should I get this checked out? Solutions?

Thank you.

[Inked]

search 'rpm fluctuations' theres a number of things.

1. replace n80 vavle - n80 (http://www.audizine.com/forum/showthread.php/401986-replaced-the-n80-valve-no-CEL-smoother-idle-no-vibrations-when-in-D-etc?highlight=n80+vavle)

2. jb weld fitting - JB weld-the best thing ever (http://www.audizine.com/forum/showthread.php/406280-Finally-found-the-problem-!!!?highlight=finally+found+the+problem)

3. transmission fluid - ATF replace (http://www.audizine.com/forum/showthread.php/414061-A4-B7-Tiptronic-ATF-Replacement-The-DIY?highlight=ATF)

Your Welcome.

[wildcat333]

Excellent - thank you very much. Just another quick question:

Do you think this would be covered by the Certified Pre-owned Warranty? Would Audi be willing to check out my issue, and then determine if it is covered or not?

(Again, I've only had my Audi for 4 days, so I'm learning). Thanks.

[rune]

Hello. New member here, but just wanted to see if anyone has ever had an issue similar to mine. I just picked up this 08 CPO A4 (automatic) with 38,000 miles on it.

While driving in drive at a steady speed of approx 30 mph, the tachometer revs slightly up and down. I keep my foot steady, and am not accelerating or slowing down at all. I can visually see the tach move some (about 300 rpm's) up and down; and I can also hear a slight engine noise while it does this.

Any ideas? Is this normal, or should I get this checked out? Solutions?

Thank you.
I have the same problem on my 06 A4 2.0tfsi Tip. Changing vacum pump did not work (JB weld) for me.
Slippage is a common TC problem, and causes your car to resist acceleration while engine continues to rev. The most common cause is low or overheated trans fluid. So i will check my fluid level first. then see what happens. Possibly change oil and filter.
I have not tried to change my N80 valve yet, but i will do it after i check my trans fluid if i still have the RPM variation then.
Check with your Audi dealer abouet warranty, i think you have it.
Good luck, let me know how it goes.

[Leo14]

Lol take it back to the dealer man, be like hi I have warranty fix this kthx

[Macdoon]

Hi Wild

About 2 weeks ago my B7 strangely over revved a few times while driving at various speeds, the once it under revved, strange!!! anyways took it back to Audi, they have replaced the Inlet manifold as the there was a leak from the seal (complete unit replaced), this seems to have done the trick, or at least no more symptoms.

Mac

[rune]

Hi Wild

About 2 weeks ago my B7 strangely over revved a few times while driving at various speeds, the once it under revved, strange!!! anyways took it back to Audi, they have replaced the Inlet manifold as the there was a leak from the seal (complete unit replaced), this seems to have done the trick, or at least no more symptoms.

Mac

Do you have tiptronic ?

[Macdoon]

Do you have tiptronic ?

No mate

[rune]

No mate

interesting, did you have any codes or warning from instrumentpanel ?

[wildcat333]

Hi Wild

About 2 weeks ago my B7 strangely over revved a few times while driving at various speeds, the once it under revved, strange!!! anyways took it back to Audi, they have replaced the Inlet manifold as the there was a leak from the seal (complete unit replaced), this seems to have done the trick, or at least no more symptoms.

Mac

Thanks, Mac.

I called my local Audi dealership yesterday to tell them about my slight issue. The shop asked if I was experiencing this RPM fluctuation only while having the defrost on. I said couldn't recall, and I'd call back if needed. I feel that my RPMs move erratically randomly while going 25mph for example. It does not matter if I have the defrost on or not.

QUESTION ABOUT THE AUDI CERTIFIED PREOWNED WARRANTY:

I asked the dealer how this works in general. He said no matter what, I would have to pay approx $80 for the CPO deductible if it was a covered item. He said if they spent the time to look at it, and found nothing unusual, I'd have to pay approx $180 for their time/labor. Is this normal? I didn't read ALL of the CPO fine print yet. My main worry is that I cannot replicate this RPM issue 100% of the time. It does it randomly (both hot and cold engine). I want to get this checked out, but also cannot afford to get hosed for more $$$.

[rune]

Thanks, Mac.

I called my local Audi dealership yesterday to tell them about my slight issue. The shop asked if I was experiencing this RPM fluctuation only while having the defrost on. I said couldn't recall, and I'd call back if needed. I feel that my RPMs move erratically randomly while going 25mph for example. It does not matter if I have the defrost on or not.

QUESTION ABOUT THE AUDI CERTIFIED PREOWNED WARRANTY:



I asked the dealer how this works in general. He said no matter what, I would have to pay approx $80 for the CPO deductible if it was a covered item. He said if they spent the time to look at it, and found nothing unusual, I'd have to pay approx $180 for their time/labor. Is this normal? I didn't read ALL of the CPO fine print yet. My main worry is that I cannot replicate this RPM issue 100% of the time. It does it randomly (both hot and cold engine). I want to get this checked out, but also cannot afford to get hosed for more $$$.

Is it worse when cold ? I have it just in the start up fase until the engine get's warm, then it goes away. But i think we have the same issues. No codes.
Like said up here, check oil level on tranny. I will have mine checked hopefully this week and logg it with vagcom.

[wildcat333]

Is it worse when cold ? I have it just in the start up fase until the engine get's warm, then it goes away. But i think we have the same issues. No codes.
Like said up here, check oil level on tranny. I will have mine checked hopefully this week and logg it with vagcom.

It varies - it can do the same rpm fluxuation while either super cold, or after driving for a while, and plenty hot. I called the dealership today. They said they would take it for a test drive to see if they agree that it has a problem (for free). I really hope when I bring it to them, the issue actually happens again. It's not constant, so we'll see. I even had my friend ride with me, to make sure I wasn't crazy, haha. I'll report back for sure later this week. I think I'm going to bring it in Thursday or Friday.

[wildcat333]

I took a video of the RPM flucuation and threw it on youtube in case anyone is interested in what I was talking about:


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kdmL68HIBVE

UPDATE:

I took it to the dealer today (Friday, 03/04/11). I went for a drive with the lead mechanic. Of course, it drove fine with no RPM issues. I showed the video above that I had on my phone to him, which allowed him to investigate the issue further. After about three hours of working on it, they fixed the problem. I'll write word for word what the dealer wrote on my slip:

"Customer road tested with shop foreman. Confirmed customer complaint - engine RPM surge on steady speed. Checked ECM for faults, no faults stored on ECM, checked engine over, found small vacuum leak coming from breather valve, removed breather valve, applied pressure on the intake side, valve is not holding pressure, causing turbo boost to enter engine breather system, making RMP's go up and down at a steady speed. Replaced breather valve and updated breather hose. Road tested vehicle, set readiness code. Engine is performing to manufacture specs."

The slip says it would have cost $197.61 without warranty. I paid nothing out of pocket. CPO FTW. Car drives perfectly. Very happy.

[groundround]

does it idle like that while stopped or in neutral? Mine did that and audi could not figure out what it was. ended up being the PCV valve

[rune]

I took a video of the RPM flucuation and threw it on youtube in case anyone is interested in what I was talking about:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kdmL68HIBVE

UPDATE:

I took it to the dealer today (Friday, 03/04/11). I went for a drive with the lead mechanic. Of course, it drove fine with no RPM issues. I showed the video above that I had on my phone to him, which allowed him to investigate the issue further. After about three hours of working on it, they fixed the problem. I'll write word for word what the dealer wrote on my slip:

"Customer road tested with shop foreman. Confirmed customer complaint - engine RPM surge on steady speed. Checked ECM for faults, no faults stored on ECM, checked engine over, found small vacuum leak coming from breather valve, removed breather valve, applied pressure on the intake side, valve is not holding pressure, causing turbo boost to enter engine breather system, making RMP's go up and down at a steady speed. Replaced breather valve and updated breather hose. Road tested vehicle, set readiness code. Engine is performing to manufacture specs."

The slip says it would have cost $197.61 without warranty. I paid nothing out of pocket. CPO FTW. Car drives perfectly. Very happy.


Good news and congratulations , i will check mine too [:)] When i see your video, mine is performing the same.

This part you changed ? http://www.ecstuning.com/Audi-B7_A4-Quattro-2.0T/Search/Breather_Valve/

[Slovak84]

Also have been having this problem, It started this winter.... The car fluctuates usually 100rpm up and down when accelerating before engine fully warms up. Once the engine is around normal Op temp the fluctuating just stops and needle remains steady. A lot of ppl are having this issue lately...

[wildcat333]

groundround - It only did that while driving. Definitely not in parked. I drive auto tiptronic, so I'm rarely in neutral, so I am not sure about that. It would do it between 20-70 mph at various points.

rune - Thanks! It feels like a new car - like it should since it's two weeks old to me haha!!. I really cannot say as far as a part number. I'm not an expert on these things or car parts, so I don't want to mess you up anyhow. My slip that they gave me only said the information I posted above in the red font. It's possible though.. most likely I'd say. Also, how's Norway? I hear it's a fun and cool place to be!

[rune]

groundround - It only did that while driving. Definitely not in parked. I drive auto tiptronic, so I'm rarely in neutral, so I am not sure about that. It would do it between 20-70 mph at various points.

rune - Thanks! It feels like a new car - like it should since it's two weeks old to me haha!!. I really cannot say as far as a part number. I'm not an expert on these things or car parts, so I don't want to mess you up anyhow. My slip that they gave me only said the information I posted above in the red font. It's possible though.. most likely I'd say. Also, how's Norway? I hear it's a fun and cool place to be!

I am fine thank you, just waiting for the winter to go away. It's been very cold for long time and i am glad it's spring time soon.
How is it 'over there' ?
Just hope my car will be fixed soon, i already bought this valve at the audi shop, http://www.ecstuning.com/Audi-B7_A4-...reather_Valve/
Let us hope it's the right one [cool]

[wildcat333]

another update:

I am not happy to say this, but the rpm fluctuations are back. Now they only happen when the car is cold, during the first 10+ minutes of driving. The movement in the tach is virtually the same as the above video. To me though, this is not acceptable. I live close to my job, and often will only drive 15 miles in a day. The problem is that I live about one hour from the dealership. By the time I drive it to the dealer, the engine is nice and warm, and does not show any issues when I get there for their test drive. I will call tomorrow, attempt to arrange a drop-off to let them work on it over a day or two. I hope they will give me a loaner car, as I really don't want my car back until it is completely fixed. A two week old CPO A4 should not have these issues. I will report back (obviously) as to what I find out.

Also, when the RPM's rev up and down, the engine or something makes terrible noises. It sounds like a am about to break down!

[wildcat333]

update as of Sunday 03/06/11 @ 3:40 PM EST:

To clarify, I had the dealer repairs done on Friday. I had the RPM issues Saturday morning, when it was cold outside. It is about 52 degrees (F) outside today (Sunday), and I did not have any issues. I'm wondering if it only happens during very cold weather. I am going to hold off on any dealer service until this happens to me again. If it does, I'll be gung-ho for repairs!!

I was glad again to see the car running properly. I even ended up driving on some dirt/muddy country roads in heavy fog conditions. I love the auto Sport gear mode. So fun/fast. APR chip possibly in late spring....?!!

[rune]

update as of Sunday 03/06/11 @ 3:40 PM EST:

To clarify, I had the dealer repairs done on Friday. I had the RPM issues Saturday morning, when it was cold outside. It is about 52 degrees (F) outside today (Sunday), and I did not have any issues. I'm wondering if it only happens during very cold weather. I am going to hold off on any dealer service until this happens to me again. If it does, I'll be gung-ho for repairs!!

I was glad again to see the car running properly. I even ended up driving on some dirt/muddy country roads in heavy fog conditions. I love the auto Sport gear mode. So fun/fast. APR chip possibly in late spring....?!!

Good, i will follow this thread.

I can see some oilgrease and dirt around the PCV, and i have the parts so will go to dealer to change them.
Someone told me to check the oil level in the tranny, cause if it's too low it can cause RPM jumps when cold. Cold oil is thicker than warmed up oil, maybe a lock up valve can be hanging or bad ? i will check this up.
Sportmode is fun to drive with and it's a big difference too D mode.

Do you know if there is taken a service on your tranny, oil/filter ?

[wildcat333]

rune - According to my CPO paperwork (certified last month/ about 700 miles ago), they changed the tranny fluid, and also changed the oil/filter.

I called the dealer today, because it is acting up again as of today (Monday). It is less severe than the video I posted, but the car still makes awful noises when the rpm's move. I have figured out at least one way to replicate the issue most of the time >>> When accelerating, to about 40 MPH, the car will shift from 4th to 5th gear. Anywhere between 38 MPH and 42 MPH while in 5th gear, assuming I am giving the car a constant amount of gas with the pedal, it will do this. I will be bringing my car in NEXT Wednesday (03/16/11). They could take it sooner, but I need a loaner car, and that is the first available opening with a loaner. I swear I'm about to print out this thread and make them read it haha... I'll report back with any updates.

[rune]

rune - According to my CPO paperwork (certified last month/ about 700 miles ago), they changed the tranny fluid, and also changed the oil/filter.

I called the dealer today, because it is acting up again as of today (Monday). It is less severe than the video I posted, but the car still makes awful noises when the rpm's move. I have figured out at least one way to replicate the issue most of the time >>> When accelerating, to about 40 MPH, the car will shift from 4th to 5th gear. Anywhere between 38 MPH and 42 MPH while in 5th gear, assuming I am giving the car a constant amount of gas with the pedal, it will do this. I will be bringing my car in NEXT Wednesday (03/16/11). They could take it sooner, but I need a loaner car, and that is the first available opening with a loaner. I swear I'm about to print out this thread and make them read it haha... I'll report back with any updates.

Today driving to work ca 50-60 km/h and around 1500RPM on 5th gear i feel the exhaust working and i see the variation on the tacho meter up/down with ca 200RPM.
i hope we can find out what is going on, it should NOT be like this. I have an appointment next tuesday to change my parts(PCV,DV,N249 valve) and check oil level on tranny. Oil level is very important for the tranny to work as it should.
But, it seems to be from 3th gear up i have this problem and when engine is in startup fase.When warm as said earlier it is fine.
i will keep you updated if anything happens.

Good luck :-)

[rune]

Hi Wild

About 2 weeks ago my B7 strangely over revved a few times while driving at various speeds, the once it under revved, strange!!! anyways took it back to Audi, they have replaced the Inlet manifold as the there was a leak from the seal (complete unit replaced), this seems to have done the trick, or at least no more symptoms.

Mac

I find your replacment of the intake manifold interesting. I have searched and found out that this is a part that often fails.
Looks like my car has some codes, DTC 08200 and 12600. This relates to intake manifold flap motor.

Did you have same symtoms like me and wildcat have ?

wildcat: Are you sure you have no codes ?

[wildcat333]

wildcat: Are you sure you have no codes ?

As far as codes... I do not have any check engine or idiot lights on my dash. I don't have a vag-com unit, so I'm not sure about anything more in depth. My rpm's are still doing their same ol' routine (as described above). I would like them to replace as many parts as possible to fix this. 8 days till I drop it off at the dealer...

[rune]

As far as codes... I do not have any check engine or idiot lights on my dash. I don't have a vag-com unit, so I'm not sure about anything more in depth. My rpm's are still doing their same ol' routine (as described above). I would like them to replace as many parts as possible to fix this. 8 days till I drop it off at the dealer...


Do you have any updates ?

[wildcat333]

Do you have any updates ?

I took the car to the dealership on 03/16/11. The Audi Service guy called me yesterday and told me the following:

They drove the car on a test drive. They agree with me, and admit there is in fact an issue. They found a code indicating a fuel pressure issue. They replaced the fuel pressure sensor. This did not fix the issue. They opened a ticket with Audi Corporate, and were waiting to hear back from the corporate service guy before they move forward.

I really do not know what that means, or if that's a good or bad thing. All I know is I am glad it is certified pre-owned, and glad that they don't think I'm crazy. At least it will eventually get fixed fairly soon I imagine.

Also, I get to drive this for my loaner car > 2011 Audi Q5, literally brand-new with 7 (yes, seven) miles on it. Insane. It has the 2.0T engine, with the Premium Plus package. The thing is real nice. I am not normally comfortable with SUV's, or being high above the road like that, but it is very smooth and pretty baller-status I have to say.

http://i710.photobucket.com/albums/ww110/unhwildcat33333/IMAG0467.jpg
http://i710.photobucket.com/albums/ww110/unhwildcat33333/IMAG0468.jpg
http://i710.photobucket.com/albums/ww110/unhwildcat33333/IMAG0463.jpg

>
>

Does anyone have any guesses now as to what the problem might be? I'll be sure to report back once I know more info.

[rune]

I took the car to the dealership on 03/16/11. The Audi Service guy called me yesterday and told me the following:

They drove the car on a test drive. They agree with me, and admit there is in fact an issue. They found a code indicating a fuel pressure issue. They replaced the fuel pressure sensor. This did not fix the issue. They opened a ticket with Audi Corporate, and were waiting to hear back from the corporate service guy before they move forward.


I really do not know what that means, or if that's a good or bad thing. All I know is I am glad it is certified pre-owned, and glad that they don't think I'm crazy. At least it will eventually get fixed fairly soon I imagine.

Also, I get to drive this for my loaner car > 2011 Audi Q5, literally brand-new with 7 (yes, seven) miles on it. Insane. It has the 2.0T engine, with the Premium Plus package. The thing is real nice. I am not normally comfortable with SUV's, or being high above the road like that, but it is very smooth and pretty baller-status I have to say.

http://i710.photobucket.com/albums/ww110/unhwildcat33333/IMAG0467.jpg
http://i710.photobucket.com/albums/ww110/unhwildcat33333/IMAG0468.jpg
http://i710.photobucket.com/albums/ww110/unhwildcat33333/IMAG0463.jpg

>
>

Does anyone have any guesses now as to what the problem might be? I'll be sure to report back once I know more info.

Nice Q5,

I got my car back today after changing DV,PCV,N249 valve and fuel filter. Did check oil level in the tranny and seems to be good. They also cleaned the throttle body and did a adaption.
Will report back when i have time to do a test drive, hopefully tomorrow.

[wildcat333]

Nice Q5,

I got my car back today after changing DV,PCV,N249 valve and fuel filter. Did check oil level in the tranny and seems to be good. They also cleaned the throttle body and did a adaption.
Will report back when i have time to do a test drive, hopefully tomorrow.

Sounds good, rune.

Update: I just got a call from the Audi Service guy at the dealership. They did some more tests with the VAG computer unit, and it appears the torque converter is not locking up like it should. Apparently this is not a mechanical problem, but something more of a software problem. They will be keeping the car over the weekend, and they hope that Audi Corporate will send them a software update for my car on Monday.

[rune]

Sounds good, rune.

Update: I just got a call from the Audi Service guy at the dealership. They did some more tests with the VAG computer unit, and it appears the torque converter is not locking up like it should. Apparently this is not a mechanical problem, but something more of a software problem. They will be keeping the car over the weekend, and they hope that Audi Corporate will send them a software update for my car on Monday.

Hi Wild

After testing my car today, my car is the same as before.

I hope you find out on monday. Did they say if the software update was for the transmission module or engine module ?

Hope this will be solved, and i will sleep better at nights [:)]

[wildcat333]

Update:

I just got a call from Audi Service. They did a transmission software update today, which did not solve the problem. Audi Corporate is ordering the dealer to replace the torque converter. It has been ordered, and will arrive at the shop on 03/23/11. I looked it up online, and it appears this repair will take approx 10-15 hours to complete - sounds pretty intense. Has anyone ever had their torque converter repaired? Is this a good thing, or should I now be worried about the fate of my transmission in general? Ughhh. At least they are still working on it I guess. Tomorrow I will have had my car one month exactly :/

[rune]

Update:

I just got a call from Audi Service. They did a transmission software update today, which did not solve the problem. Audi Corporate is ordering the dealer to replace the torque converter. It has been ordered, and will arrive at the shop on 03/23/11. I looked it up online, and it appears this repair will take approx 10-15 hours to complete - sounds pretty intense. Has anyone ever had their torque converter repaired? Is this a good thing, or should I now be worried about the fate of my transmission in general? Ughhh. At least they are still working on it I guess. Tomorrow I will have had my car one month exactly :/

Hi wild

This is not good news. You are lucky you have guarantee. The TC is a very expensive part. I had a feeling it could be the TC doing this, but hoped not. We will see after you have changed TC,then we will know for sure. I will wait your report on this before i do anything more on mine.

good luck,

[fly300kts]

Well well, torque converter...... Never heard about any failure and again, that brings the discussion towards the tranny fluid level.

Phil

[bbimmer]

very timely thread. My 2006 A4 Avant 2.0 started doing this 2 days ago. Noticed that at a steady throttle, going about 35mph, rpms fluctuate ever so slightly. Noticable on the tach and can also feel a slight pulsating in the engine. Has definitely happened while car is cold. Will have to check and see about when warm. Regular maintenance/fluid checks always followed/performed. 55k miles on car. Out of warranty unfortunately.

[airbornerifleman]

subscribed!

[wildcat333]

Just a brief update: The TC has not yet arrived from Audi Parts. They said "it is currently somewhere over the Atlantic." They expect the part to arrive this Friday (03/25/11). I will be out town until Monday, but I'll report back with updates then.

[wildcat333]

UPDATE:

I picked up my car today. The newly installed torque converter did the trick! They installed it, did a 60 mile road test, checked the computer, and everything was good. I drove it 1.5 hours home tonight with all sorts of driving (city driving, highway, and sporty acceleration) and it is driving perfectly. The RPM's no longer fluctuate where it used to (always when shifting from 4th to 5th around 40 mph) in drive.

It had been in the shop for almost two weeks, which sucked. BUT it made me truly appreciate the car again. It is so much better than the Q5 loaner in my opinion.

Rune, and any others with similar issues: I hope this thread helped. Feel free to message me or reply to this thread for any questions. I wish you the best of luck with your repairs.

NEW TORQUE CONVERTER FTW!!! CPO FTW!!!

Now time for the mods listed in my signature!!! WINNING!!!

[rune]

UPDATE:

I picked up my car today. The newly installed torque converter did the trick! They installed it, did a 60 mile road test, checked the computer, and everything was good. I drove it 1.5 hours home tonight with all sorts of driving (city driving, highway, and sporty acceleration) and it is driving perfectly. The RPM's no longer fluctuate where it used to (always when shifting from 4th to 5th around 40 mph) in drive.

It had been in the shop for almost two weeks, which sucked. BUT it made me truly appreciate the car again. It is so much better than the Q5 loaner in my opinion.

Rune, and any others with similar issues: I hope this thread helped. Feel free to message me or reply to this thread for any questions. I wish you the best of luck with your repairs.

NEW TORQUE CONVERTER FTW!!! CPO FTW!!!

Now time for the mods listed in my signature!!! WINNING!!!


Good to hear you have your car fixed.

Did they say what inside the TC was failing ? What the cause was ?

[airbornerifleman]

Thanks for the info OP

[wildcat333]

Good to hear you have your car fixed.

Did they say what inside the TC was failing ? What the cause was ?

Hey, rune - they didn't specifically say what inside the TC was failing. I read the entire service printout sheet they gave me. It just sounded to me like it was the last possible thing that could be wrong with the car, and they just had to replace it. It's gross though that I had become so used to hearing the RPM fluctuation noise, that I almost still expect to hear a f***ed up noise still, haha! I really hope you figure out your issue. I'm also subscribed to this thread, so I'll keep up with your progress if you decide to post updates here. Good luck.

[sysadlight]

I've had this exact problem for a year and a half, and the couple times I mentioned it to the service advisor, he went on with the line about the engine being cold, and the fuel system doing something blah, blah....Im gonna take a video as well and show them and mention the TC as well. Bugs me that I have lived with it so long and been dismissed about it. I still have a CPO in effect until October of this year, and while the weather is still cold, I think I'll make sure it can be replicated and show them with a cold start and run...with the video as backup in case it doesn't.

[wildcat333]

I've had this exact problem for a year and a half, and the couple times I mentioned it to the service advisor, he went on with the line about the engine being cold, and the fuel system doing something blah, blah....Im gonna take a video as well and show them and mention the TC as well. Bugs me that I have lived with it so long and been dismissed about it. I still have a CPO in effect until October of this year, and while the weather is still cold, I think I'll make sure it can be replicated and show them with a cold start and run...with the video as backup in case it doesn't.

Nice dude... ya, get it checked out again for sure. FYI, even though Stratham Audi is closer, I took it to Audi Nashua, because I bought it there and the issue started within a week of buying it. Good luck. Post updates here if they fix something.

[rune]

I have done another oil change on the Tranny(Audi recomandation). But it's still the same(rpm jumps). I will go back to Audi next week and hear their opinion. I think i have to change my TC also.

Will report back later on..

[wildcat333]

I have done another oil change on the Tranny(Audi recomandation). But it's still the same(rpm jumps). I will go back to Audi next week and hear their opinion. I think i have to change my TC also.

Will report back later on..

That stinks. Even though it will be pricey $$$, it will feel like a brand new car for you. Plus, you've already replaced a fair amount of other parts, so you'll basically have a new car under the hood [>_<]

Let us know how it goes.

[rune]

Today Audi service called me and told me they will cover 50%, so they have ordered new TC. i have accepted this and hopefully in May they will change it.
I am satisfied with their offer and we split 50/50%, since i really don't have warranty. Car has run 108Km.

[AudiBoy69]

Same problem here and i brought the car to the dealer last week and they didnt fix it but claimed they did... They didnt even tested the car so i brought it back today and got a brand new 2011 A3 TDI as a loaner :) now they can keep the car as long as they want until they actually fix the problem...

[wildcat333]

rune - 50/50 sounds like a real fair deal. it will still be a lot of cash, but better than nothing. keep us updated!

audiboy69 - I'm jealous of your a3 loaner car! that sounds like a lot more fun than the q5 that I had as a loaner for a while.

[AudiBoy69]

It was great car to have but just got mine back and the problem is fixed this time. The problem that was causing the RPM fluctuation was the throttle body. THey said there was carbon built up in there so they just cleaned it and problem disappeared. Same thing told me my mechanic when i went to him before going to audi ;) I loved how the A3 handled and it was sport tronic so gears shifted super fast..

[A4_Ti]

I have a MT and don't have any of these problems, but excellent thread, great work keeping everyone updated this will probably help a lot of people

[AudiBoy69]

so guess what... they didnt fixed the problem cleaning out throttle body... now they claiming that for car at this many miles (41k) is normal to have rpm fluctuation... they stupid or something ? im bringing it back for the third time :(

[wildcat333]

so guess what... they didnt fixed the problem cleaning out throttle body... now they claiming that for car at this many miles (41k) is normal to have rpm fluctuation... they stupid or something ? im bringing it back for the third time :(

That sucks, man. FYI, I am at about 39,500 miles. So you very well may have the same problems as I was having. Be sure to check the entire thread though - a couple people had different things fixed besides the torque converter (which worked for me), and they are good now. Tell the shop you know people w/ the exact same issue, and their dealerships actually did something about it. Make them go for a test drive w/ you like I did. Best of luck. Post your results back here.

[AudiBoy69]

i did went for a test drive already with mechanic and saw the problem so they cleaned throttle body and claimed that there is no more issue.. but there is when i took the car.. so now i left it today at different dealership so i'll see what they do about it..

[DUCTMON]

I have had rpm's jumping around for a while now , mostly when its cold. Has any one used ZF LifeGuard 6 fluid in their tip. I was thinking of doing a filter and fluid change. I know some of the bmw guys have tried it on their ZF's. Any concerns about using this fluid on an audi.

[kaklexicon]

Hey wildcat,
I'm curious if you ever had an issue when you were at a stop in idle, where your revs would drop below the standard idle revs (700 - 800) from time to time? This has been happening to me. The car never stalls or anything but you can feel it.

[wildcat333]

DUCTMON - Honestly, I'm not even sure about the tip fluid, or how that would be changed.

kaklexicon - No, I never had an issue while it was at an idle. Someone earlier in the thread did have an idle issue though, and I'm not sure if they ever got the resolved. My main issue was while my car was driving at around 40 mph (even though the video on page 1 of this thread was at 60 mph). Do you have a CPO warranty?

[kaklexicon]

Oh yea, def got the CPO so i'm not too worried about it. Just curious if it was a similar thing.

[rune]

hi Wild,

I finally got my torque converter replaced. The car is running perfect [:)]

[wildcat333]

hi Wild,

I finally got my torque converter replaced. The car is running perfect [:)]

Rune, I was just wondering about your repair. Excellent! Just in time for some nice summer weather.

[rune]

Rune, I was just wondering about your repair. Excellent! Just in time for some nice summer weather.

Yes,ready for summertime [:D]

I feel the car is shifting smoother and better. Feels like a new car.

[nectop]

rune
Thank you!

And thank all of you guys! I spend about a year to find this thread!!!! None in Europe has fixed this problem, non of Audi dialer in Russia has fixed this issue. I spend a lot of $$$ to try to fixed it. Now I know, I have to spend more $$$ but at last I'll fix it!! Thanks for posting this info, great job!!

[wildcat333]

rune
Thank you!

And thank all of you guys! I spend about a year to find this thread!!!! None in Europe has fixed this problem, non of Audi dialer in Russia has fixed this issue. I spend a lot of $$$ to try to fixed it. Now I know, I have to spend more $$$ but at last I'll fix it!! Thanks for posting this info, great job!!

nectop - glad this thread helped! I'm very happy now that my car drives properly. Good luck on the repair. Post updates here if you want. P.S. how is Russia these days? And do you like Chelsea (English) soccer/football because of Roman Abramovich? He's the man!

[nectop]

wildcat333
Thank you for posting your experience. I'll keep updaing on my repair, I don't have warranty on my 2007 A4, and repair at dialer is very expensive, so I have ordered this part 09L323571G at one of Russian's tuning company, it's expensive, but the other possibility is to repair is, but it will not allow it to run smooth for a long time, so I decided to replace it. I hope it will help, now I'm going to change ATF every 45-60 000 km, because Audi don't recommend to change it, they said it lifetime, maybe we should bring an action against them? Because they do it for us to buy a new tranny or a new car!!!

P.S. I'm not a soccer/football fan. I like to play with my son, and that's it :-)

[nectop]

Dear colleagues, I want to ask you to write a claim to your local Audi headquarters, they should contact Audi AG Germany and think about modifying some parts of the tranni, or will contact us for a free/discount repair. I wrote to our Audi Russia, they said, that they have passed my claim to Audi Headquarters in Germany, they will investigate the case.

[Avant Eh]

First thanks for starting the discussion. It'a a big help seeing what's happend to others dealing with the same issues before diving in myself. I bought a 2008 A4 wagon this past summer and noticed the RPM fluctuation issue driving through the many school zones in my neighbourhood when the car is cold. With colder weather upon us here it seemed to be more prevalent. I had Audi look at the problem about a month ago and they ended up changing out a recycle valve which apparently wasn't actuating when they bench tested it. I knew it wasn't fixed as soon as I drove away. Back in again for the past week and they told me today that they got a software update related to the transmission from the Audi mothership and will test the car out tomorrow. Cross my fingers.

[wildcat333]

@Avant Eh - good luck, hopefully they find out the issue. Be sure to post back on here what the solution was. This was my first thread ever, and the reason I caught the "mod-bug" here on AZ!!

[Avant Eh]

The software update apparently didn't work. They left a message and the torque converter is enroute. Will update with results next week.

[Charles.waite]

The software update apparently didn't work. They left a message and the torque converter is enroute. Will update with results next week.

I'm having this same issue with my car. Are you guys getting this covered under any sort of warranty? I've got nothing, my car was just over the mileage to be a CPO when I bought it last year and its been having this issue since I noticed it in February. Its really minor, but under really light load, from about 1400 to 2200 rpms it will just blip up and down. Obviously its the same thing just wanted to see if you guys were paying out of pocket for this work, or if the dealers been taking care of it. From everything I've read, a new TC is the only way to fix this unless you want to tear the transmission apart and start replacing solenoids and valves yourself, which while that might be fun for 5 minutes I have nowhere near the space, tools, or resolve to possibly do that.

[wildcat333]

I'm having this same issue with my car. Are you guys getting this covered under any sort of warranty? I've got nothing, my car was just over the mileage to be a CPO when I bought it last year and its been having this issue since I noticed it in February. Its really minor, but under really light load, from about 1400 to 2200 rpms it will just blip up and down. Obviously its the same thing just wanted to see if you guys were paying out of pocket for this work, or if the dealers been taking care of it. From everything I've read, a new TC is the only way to fix this unless you want to tear the transmission apart and start replacing solenoids and valves yourself, which while that might be fun for 5 minutes I have nowhere near the space, tools, or resolve to possibly do that.

I had my torque converter replaced under factory CPO, but it would have cost approx $4k out of pocket from what I recall.

[Charles.waite]

I had my torque converter replaced under factory CPO, but it would have cost approx $4k out of pocket from what I recall.

Thats about what I would expect but still...[o_o][o_o][o_o]

[SidewinderX]

Interesting thread ** my '08 CPO A4 seems to have the same issue. I've always just chalked it up as a problem becuase of the cold ** it usually dissapears when after the engine warms up a bit.

I guess after reading this I'll go take it to my audi dealer ** kind of a pain though because it's about an hour away from where I live. I'd rather make as few trips as possible **- any keys words to use when I talk to them? It seems like the torque converter is the worst case scenario, but I'd rather not go through a couple weeks of them "fixing" it before actually getting to that (if that's the real issue)...

[Charles.waite]

Honestly, I read over and over that none of their proposed "fixes" ever did anything. Its possible they need to perform all that in order for the warranty claim with AoA to be kosher though. Theres a 99% certainty that its the TC, unfortunately. Sucks, but at least you have the CPO warranty.

[wildcat333]

Honestly, I read over and over that none of their proposed "fixes" ever did anything. Its possible they need to perform all that in order for the warranty claim with AoA to be kosher though. Theres a 99% certainty that its the TC, unfortunately. Sucks, but at least you have the CPO warranty.

Exactly true. The dealership had to try certain "fixes" before AoA would approve the costly TC replacement. Just tell the dealership what's been happening, and reference my video on page one of this post if it is similar to your issues, and it your dealer doesn't understand what you're saying.

[Charles.waite]

If I ever address it (not sure if its worth the hassle) I'll have to use my gorilla pod with a little point and shoot and take a video. Dealers around me are somewhat useless I'd rather show them the problem in a video since its fairly hard to reproduce without knowing exactly how to do it. Mine is so minor you probably wouldn't notice it if you weren't as anal about cars as I am... I've had enough issues with a piece of loose trim on my old Infiniti the the dealer was never able to reproduce even though I drove with a tech and pointed it out to him. They apologized and said the roads around them were too smooth to reproduce the loud clank from behind the dash. Riiiiight...[rolleyes]

[wildcat333]

Yup << my first road test didn't reproduce the error, then I whipped out the video on my phone, then they believed me.. haha.

[Charles.waite]

Yea, theres a hill by my house that is the perfect incline to trigger the behavior, but its too far away from the dealer to make a trip there worthwhile. Plus the car would be warm by then and not likely to reproduce the issue...

[esm]

This issue happens to my car when its cold AND I am using APR Stage 1. When switched back to stock, the issue goes away. How many of you experience this with stock vs stage 1? That may explain some of the problem.

[wildcat333]

I am stock (not chipped/not tuned).

[Avant Eh]

Got my car back just before xmas after they changed out the TC and have put some miles on it. Seems to have done the trick. Driving around town cold and revs are as steady as my foot. It was all covered under warranty which ran out the day before I finally got the car back. The dealership was great and even gave me a loner to get my shopping done the last weekend before xmas. Glad it's done and dealt with. Hope things work out for everyone else.

[fammd]

I got the same problem now. No codes, just the fluctuations on cold mornings. I didn't really notice it till these past winter months since I bought the car last September. Probably won't have it fixed since it doesn't bother me and the nearest dealer is 2 hours away, and it finally goes away after the engine gets warm. As far as I know, from the forums, that it won't really damage anything if I leave it alone, right?

[Charles.waite]

This issue happens to my car when its cold AND I am using APR Stage 1. When switched back to stock, the issue goes away. How many of you experience this with stock vs stage 1? That may explain some of the problem.

I have the problem and I'm stock. It seems to be getting worse as it gets colder out.

[ridin]

I have the problem and I'm stock. It seems to be getting worse as it gets colder out.

x2. RPM fluctuations used to be steady once the car warmed up & while in higher gears, but now the situation as worsened - does it all the time, even after a 30 minute drive. Also have an annoying whine, and there is definitely a significant lack of power.

[redcon1]

Hoping that AOA is working up a warranty extension on this problem... seems pretty widespread!!

[menace1930]

Hoping that AOA is working up a warranty extension on this problem... seems pretty widespread!!

I am currently working on fixing the same issue. I purchased my 2006 A4 with 2.0T and tiptronic 30 days ago and I have the same rpm fluctuation issue at low speeds. They have already replaced some turbo valves and hoses thinking it was an internal boost leak but that didnt fix it. Seems like a lot of people have this issue and replacing the torque converter seemed to fix it. My car is at the dealer now so I am waiting to hear back from them. Luckily the car came with a 60 day warranty.

[Charles.waite]

x2. RPM fluctuations used to be steady once the car warmed up & while in higher gears, but now the situation as worsened - does it all the time, even after a 30 minute drive. Also have an annoying whine, and there is definitely a significant lack of power.

Is the whine more of a whistle? Could mean your PCV is blown, which could somewhat explain the lack of power.

[anta4]

I would take if back to the dealer

[Infamouz627]

Anyone on AZ have a clue as to how to get some type of a class action/petition going so AOA is aware of this widespread occurance and hopefully can dish out a recall or something??

I've owned my 06 B7 for about a year and a half now and have noticed this surging a couple of months back. Today for some reason, it became much more noticeable. It's cold in NYC today but we've had colder days and it wasn't as noticeable. I also suspect the TC to be the culprit for the hard kicks when up or down shifting and the "shuddering" before a complete stop that so many have also complained about.

[ridin]

Is the whine more of a whistle? Could mean your PCV is blown, which could somewhat explain the lack of power.

It is definitely a whine. Kind of like a DC motor whine and follows the engine RPM even in neutral. Would a blown PCV be a whine or a whistle (or both)?

[rune]

It is definitely a whine. Kind of like a DC motor whine and follows the engine RPM even in neutral. Would a blown PCV be a whine or a whistle (or both)?

So, you still have your problem. Can you make a video and share it with us ? Maybe we can hear the sound ? could be easier to try to help. Would be interesting to see your tachometer when you have the rpm jumps/variation.

[Charles.waite]

To those of you who've been following this issue, I wanted to share a little update:

Last Saturday I replaced my Thermostat as it was was opening way too early (around 45-50*C rather than 80*C that its supposed to). It was causing really long warmup times and it would drop as low as 1/4 frequently while driving around. Anyway after I replaced my T-Stat, the car warms up great and is pinned at 1/2 temp while driving after initial warmup. Since my temps are finally being regulated correctly I've noticed a funny thing: My Trans has almost completely stopped the TC lockup/slip issue. It was starting to get REALLY bad too. With the new T-Stat I can BARELY notice it, mostly just when the engine is cold, but once it warms up you really can't feel it slipping at all.

My guess is that the Trans wasn't warming up properly since the coolant cycling through it was too cold and not allowing the trans fluid to get up to temp. Essentially causing the transmission to act like it was underfilled since the ATF was never up to temp. I still get harsh shifting, but even that has smoothed out somewhat.

I thought I would pass this along as its kind of shocking the difference it makes to have a trans finally operating at the correct temp. I never anticipated looking into the Transmission temps but clearly thats a large factor in the behavior of the transmission.

[rune]

To those of you who've been following this issue, I wanted to share a little update:

Last Saturday I replaced my Thermostat as it was was opening way too early (around 45-50*C rather than 80*C that its supposed to). It was causing really long warmup times and it would drop as low as 1/4 frequently while driving around. Anyway after I replaced my T-Stat, the car warms up great and is pinned at 1/2 temp while driving after initial warmup. Since my temps are finally being regulated correctly I've noticed a funny thing: My Trans has almost completely stopped the TC lockup/slip issue. It was starting to get REALLY bad too. With the new T-Stat I can BARELY notice it, mostly just when the engine is cold, but once it warms up you really can't feel it slipping at all.

My guess is that the Trans wasn't warming up properly since the coolant cycling through it was too cold and not allowing the trans fluid to get up to temp. Essentially causing the transmission to act like it was underfilled since the ATF was never up to temp. I still get harsh shifting, but even that has smoothed out somewhat.

I thought I would pass this along as its kind of shocking the difference it makes to have a trans finally operating at the correct temp. I never anticipated looking into the Transmission temps but clearly thats a large factor in the behavior of the transmission.

when i replaced my TC i was using the same thermostat. Thermostat was not changed.
Interesting to hear your theory.

[robdalli]

UPDATE:

I picked up my car today. The newly installed torque converter did the trick! They installed it, did a 60 mile road test, checked the computer, and everything was good. I drove it 1.5 hours home tonight with all sorts of driving (city driving, highway, and sporty acceleration) and it is driving perfectly. The RPM's no longer fluctuate where it used to (always when shifting from 4th to 5th around 40 mph) in drive.

It had been in the shop for almost two weeks, which sucked. BUT it made me truly appreciate the car again. It is so much better than the Q5 loaner in my opinion.

Rune, and any others with similar issues: I hope this thread helped. Feel free to message me or reply to this thread for any questions. I wish you the best of luck with your repairs.

NEW TORQUE CONVERTER FTW!!! CPO FTW!!!

Now time for the mods listed in my signature!!! WINNING!!!

My car is doing exactly what you have described. Ill be telling them about this thread so can go straight to the problem rather than tinker with everything else it 'could' be. I bought the extended warranty but I hope they'll take care of the costs since I've only had the car 2weeks! we'll see what happens

Thank you for posting your problems!
Is your car still running like a top?

[wildcat333]

My car is doing exactly what you have described. Ill be telling them about this thread so can go straight to the problem rather than tinker with everything else it 'could' be. I bought the extended warranty but I hope they'll take care of the costs since I've only had the car 2weeks! we'll see what happens

Thank you for posting your problems!
Is your car still running like a top?

Ya man. Car is running great currently ( knock on wood)!!!

Good luck. Post up your results here.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk.

[Ed Gein]

mine does it a tiny bit when its cold and its cold out

[FuriouS]

FYI there is a TSB for this service. It should be a recall in my oppinion. my car is out of warranty and I cant spend 4K to fix it.



Technical Service Bulletin Transaction No.: 0
32 Shudder or RPM fluctuations while at cruising speed Release date: Feb 3, 2012

Condition

Customer may report shudder or RPM fluctuation while at cruising speed in 4th, 5th, or 6th gear.

Technical Background

Torque convertor clutches may have excess slippage while cruising.

Production Solution

Not applicable.

Service

1.
Check and verify that the software is at the highest level using TSB 2028053, 37 TCM software update for downshift concerns or 2028279, 37 Shift concerns when slowing vehicle. Also, check that the fluid level and condition is clean, full, and matches the required color per the applicable TSB.

Tip: If needed, update the software of the transmission and change the fluid before proceeding with this TSB.

2.
Test drive the vehicle to verify the concern is present.

If the concern can be duplicated, verify there are no fault codes stored for misfires and watch the Measure Value Blocks in the ECM to verify no misfires are seen when the condition is present.

3.
Check MVB 7 from the TCM. Verify Field 3 is reading control and record the slip count from Field 4 while the concern is present. The slippage of the TCC should not exceed 120 RPM in MVB 7 field 4 while the convertor is in control mode. The RPM surge should coincide with TCC slippage. If this reads higher than 120 RPM, the torque convertor should be replaced.

Tip: The TCC slippage will vary when in open TCC mode and should read 0 when in closed TCC mode, this is normal. Replace the convertor for high slippage when the TCC is in control mode (above 120 RPM) or for any slippage when in closed mode (MVB 7 field 4).

Tip: It is not necessary to receive a Repair Authorization to perform this TSB.

[Infamouz627]

hmmm...very interesting. Where did you find this TSB FuriouS? Maybe now that Audi is aware of the issue (though I'm sure they've received many complaints in the past) it will transition into an extended warranty/recall?? Or not....since it's such an expensive and tedious part to get to and replace respectively...not to mention it's hard to duplicate after the engine is warmed up (that's the case for me at least).

[Cantalk]

Im taking mine in on the 27th to get it checked, rpms all over the place even in third. Car was warmed up to ~60C.
My question is, has anyone else had a really hesitant shift b/w 3 and 4 th gears?
Also called the parts dept at my local stealership, $2800 for a new tc and $2600 for a new valve body. Thank God for warranties, but if those end up having to go, i might just spring for an upgraded 517 tranny so i dont have to worry too much after my warranty ends in a year and 3 months. Thoughts?
EDIT: Took my car into the dealership and they decided to replace the turbo, even though i told them i thought it was the TC. [facepalm]

[ChrisS417]

So I as well am having this issue and I believe it to be the torque converter. I just purchased my 07' A4 Avant 2.0t S-Line a week ago and am still under the standard used car 2-Month 2k mile warranty.
It says, "In the event of mechanical breakdown of a covered part" they will pay parts and labor or reimburse the cost done elsewhere. (torque converter is listed as a covered part)

I would argue this is most definitely a failure...

What do you all think are the odds of me getting them to cover this?

It seems as though the contract covers it, but its just a matter of arguing that this is a "mechanical breakdown due to faulty workmanship or supplies provided by the OEM".

[wildcat333]

bought from Audi dealership or not?

[ChrisS417]

Unfortunately it wasn't bought from an Audi dealership, however it was a VW dealership...

[wildcat333]

Unfortunately it wasn't bought from an Audi dealership, however it was a VW dealership...

I would document your issues. Try to record a video like I did on page 1 of this thread. Take it back to where you bought it ASAP. See what they say. Then post back here. Good luck.

[ChrisS417]

Alright, so I went to the dealer with the problem, and apparently this warranty is held/honored by a warranty company, Wells Fargo Dealer Services: Warranty Solutions. I called them and they didn't even have me in the system yet, as the contract is physically shipped and entered. They tried to get out of it by saying it was a preexisting condition, and they don't cover those. I insisted that this occurred in the last week, which it did as it didn't do this on the test drives. From there he says I need to have it checked out by the mechanic of my choice, and diagnosed as a failure and then they will go from there.

Gonna have my guys check it out and diagnose it for me, and hopefully I can get all the hoops jumped through before 2k miles/2months.

My fingers are crossed!

EDIT: Sidenote, I went to the service dept of the Audi dealership and got them to print the TSB from their system for me! Couldn't get good video of the problem because I drove my car late last night/early this morning before it could get really cold, plus its around 32* F now, not quite cold enough to really get it to act up.

[komolhome]

I am having exactly the same issue. Why on earth does the RPM shudder subside/stop when the car is warmed up (the temperature thingy is in the middle)?? I went to a mechanic today, and told them about this issue, and quoted this forum and thread. Anyway, we decided to see if the fluid was level. Apparently, it was overfilled by half a quart. After I got my car back, I am still having the same issue.

Has anyone else tried fixing the thermostat? Also, I am noticing that my A4 takes a little longer to warm up (and send warm air inside of the car) than my roommates BMW. I feel like there might be a problem with the thermostat potentially too. It just doesn't make sense that the TC works properly after a warm up.

Please help!

[astewar88]

I have had this same issue with the "bouncing" RPM's. Turns out it is the TC, as expected after reading the forums. Luckily i bought an aftermarket warranty from National Warranty (out of Eugene, Oregon) and they are paying every cent! They are one of very few aftermarket warranty companies worth investing in. I will give an update once i get the car back.

[wildcat333]

&lt; wow. Another TC bites the dust...!

[Cantalk]

I think my transmission may have had it. Had TC replaced 2 weeks ago, picked it up to find it shifted prettty hard when cold. Hard shifts went away for a bit but made a big comeback today. Along with rpms fluctuating again. Plus my Jeeps in the shop as well.
Keep you posted.

[Slewnior]

wildcat,

Most helpful post and video which led me here. Same issue in a CPO '08, but the dealers close to me are worthless. Had an indy shop recommend dealer in Nashua which is about 2 hours from me. I noticed you are on the Seacoast. Would you mind letting me know whether your problem was resovled by Stratham or Nashua? Both are 2 hours from me, but I'd rather hit one I know has resolved the problem in the past rather than friggin with my locals or making multiple trips. Looking for a one-shot deal, using your video, my own and the TSB which was cut an pasted here.

Thanks so much!

Jeff

[wildcat333]

Jeff,
Where are you located? "Tracey" where?
Audi of Nashua, NH worked on my transmission issues described above.
Good luck and post your results back here.

[snoproladd]

BTW...is there usually a noise involved with the TC problem? When ever the car surges, it lunges forward and makes a noise that sounds most like when you sand drywall. I really notice it now that its warm and I can drive with the windows down. It's very quiet otherwise.

I've read a lot about this problem but don't recall reading about a noise.

[gakirby]

BTW...is there usually a noise involved with the TC problem? When ever the car surges, it lunges forward and makes a noise that sounds most like when you sand drywall. I really notice it now that its warm and I can drive with the windows down. It's very quiet otherwise.

I've read a lot about this problem but don't recall reading about a noise.

I'm getting mine repaired through CPO on Monday. I can hear the RPMs increasing (same sound as if you were intentionally accelerating). I don't think I'd call it am unusual sanding noise.

Sent from my Nexus 10

[snoproladd]

Hmmm, idk then. mine is also decelerating, which I've heard is the same problem but opposite. It might be the engine management trying to keep consistent power, idk

Sent from my DROID RAZR using Tapatalk 2

[Slewnior]

Jeff,
Where are you located? "Tracey" where?
Audi of Nashua, NH worked on my transmission issues described above.
Good luck and post your results back here.

wildcat,

I'm near WRJ, VT.

Can you tell me a bit about your interaction with the Nashua shop? Was your video and description to service sufficient to get the TC work done without multiple trips? Had the car thrown codes which assisted their diagnosis?

Trying to make this a one shot effort, given the distance to Nashua.

Thanks, again.

Jeff

[wildcat333]

Hi Jeff. Audi of Nashua was actually pretty good to work with. It became a two step process because I had to go back twice when the first repairs didn't last. I posted the exact details of my interactions on pages 1-2 of this thread so I won't try to re explain the details here again. But give them a call and see what they say. Good luck Jeff!

[Slewnior]

You did write out the details, I read them when I found this thread but forgot it was a two step process for you. My problem happens only when the car is cold, so maybe we can easily bypass the front end effort you had to go through.

Thanks, again! I'll report back when we work through the process to an end result.

[wildcat333]

Hi Jeff. My issues were worse when it was cold more so than once warmed up, if that helps. Hope you get this solved!

[komolhome]

Everyone, please read my thread where I posted the cheapest solution if/when fixing w/out warranty:

http://www.audizine.com/forum/showthread.php/526212-RPM-Fluctuation-when-cruising-Had-torque-converter-rebuilt-by-517-Didn-t-help!

[Slewnior]

Dropping the car off at Audi of Nashua on my way home from the Cape next Monday, picking up a loaner, told it is a two visit process especially since I don't have a check engine light on. Was encouraged to do a video and email it, and I will along with a link to this forum and the TSB. Sounds like I've got a shot at getting it fixed here, wildcat. Thanks so much for your efforts on this thread.

Jeff

[Slewnior]

wildcat,

Sent the tech an email last Friday with a video of the tach symptom we were seeing in the car, along with some things we noticed in upshifting over the past couple of years. Dropped the car off last night around 5pm, and got a call just now that they were unable to duplicate the problem on cold start this morning. But they let it cool and found the symptoms on start up, at least enough to know what they were looking for and to do whatever diagnostics they need to do.

It is the torque converter, the already have approval from Audi to replace and a part is en route for arrival tomorrow. Tech will call with an update tomorrow for an ETA on the fix. All covered on CPO warranty at 78k, 5.2 years from date put in service.

Loaner provided for my 4 hour round trip and use.

Amazing service! Thank you so much for helping me along. I'll report back when we've had some time to see how the fix resolved the fluctuating rpm along with some of the rough shifting and transmission "tension" that had started to develop to the touch of my foot on the accelerator while driving.

[wildcat333]

Jeff,
That's awesome. Glad this thread helped.
The new TC I believe will need to "re-learn" your driving habits over the course of a few days. It will then settle in, and hopefully feel good for you!

[Slewnior]

Good to know, thanks.

Also caught a pcv problem which they fixed under CPO.

[Slewnior]

Just back from Nashua -- unable to check the reving issue until tomorrow when I'll drive it down to the stretch where we first noticed it. But, lots of kinks and quirks we'd been noticing are gone, car runs much more smoothly and responsively through the gears, upshifts are seemless with no more clunking. They also did the pcv under warranty. Easily the best dealer service on any car I've owned in my driving life - which is considerable.

Two problems coming away from the experience: 1) they managed to kill the codes in the key, so I had to reprogram it, and 2) the '13 A4 loaner, comparable model to our '08, has all kinds of improvements that my wife noticed. Steering, handling, noise, ride...fortunately, she thinks the body style change from '09 is ugly. :)

Thanks again, wildcat! Couldn't have pinned down the problem without your video and post. I was told that it took them three cold starts and rides to duplicate the video symptoms I sent them along with yours, but once they did it put them on course to diagnose the failing TC.

Jeff

[stevengrande]

Audi of Nashua is a great dealership from a service standpoint. I'm 10 mins from them and always hanging around asking questions. One of the good ones for sure!

[wildcat333]

Awesome, Jeff!

[Slewnior]

They got it done so quickly I didn't get a chance to ask questions, or better yet have them check the alignment to see whether my excellent local indy miss-fired when finding things in spec after a complaint by me of front tire wear looking dead on for a toe-in problem. He says he has the right equip, blamed the tires, said all front end parts are solid --- but 3k in on a new set of all seasons suggests to me that hint of a noise that made me look closely at the tread in the first set and found inside tread wear. grrrrr.

This is my wife's car. Wish I had something nice to spend time thinking about and tinkering with.

FWIW -- I had read this was a 10 hour job for the TC. These guys logged it at 6.3 out of their equivalent of a flatrate book , I assume. another 1.4 for testing, driving, blah blah. Cost me nothing, but thought it might be useful for those who are facing the work without warranty.

[KingHuds]

Besides the annoyance, does anyone know if leaving the TC problem is liable to cause further issues? Kinda hard to drop the $4k just to fix a bit of RPM fluctuations when its cold.

[esm]

Besides the annoyance, does anyone know if leaving the TC problem is liable to cause further issues? Kinda hard to drop the $4k just to fix a bit of RPM fluctuations when its cold.

I agree and would be interested to know.

[LoKisSpYdR]

Besides the annoyance, does anyone know if leaving the TC problem is liable to cause further issues? Kinda hard to drop the $4k just to fix a bit of RPM fluctuations when its cold.

An upgraded torque converter from 517 is around $1400 installed, includes flush and fill and TCU flash, or $600 for the DIYer, although you'll spend another $300 on trans fluid, filter, etc.

[KingHuds]

An upgraded torque converter from 517 is around $1400 installed, includes flush and fill and TCU flash, or $600 for the DIYer, although you'll spend another $300 on trans fluid, filter, etc.

http://www.audizine.com/forum/showthread.php/526212-RPM-Fluctuation-when-cruising-Had-torque-converter-rebuilt-by-517-Didn-t-help!

That post has me hesitant about the 517 TC.

[LoKisSpYdR]

That's one guy vs the dozens on this forum, not to mention all of the S6/RS6 guys and all of the BMW guys with ZFs that Sam helped with his TC. Also, 517 didn't do the install on that guy's car, and he didn't have the TCU flashed with the upgrade (not the latest Audi update, there's an actual upgrade flash). I have done a lot of research on Sam and his trannys/TCs and 99% of the reviews are positive.

Camoto's Review (note that he was stage 3)
http://www.audizine.com/forum/showthread.php/475847-517-Trans-Review-B7-A4-6HP19A

[hanszuko]

Hello. New member here, but just wanted to see if anyone has ever had an issue similar to mine. I just picked up this 08 CPO A4 (automatic) with 38,000 miles on it.

While driving in drive at a steady speed of approx 30 mph, the tachometer revs slightly up and down. I keep my foot steady, and am not accelerating or slowing down at all. I can visually see the tach move some (about 300 rpm's) up and down; and I can also hear a slight engine noise while it does this.

Any ideas? Is this normal, or should I get this checked out? Solutions?

Thank you.

Hello,

I I have exactly the same problem but what is different is that when the engine is cold everything works normally, the rpm does not fluctuate.

when the temperature reaches 90 ° C begin rpm fluctuations in single upshifts until 70k / h.

It will also be the torque converter?

Thank you. Greetings from Chile.

[Slewnior]

Audi of Nashua is a great dealership from a service standpoint. I'm 10 mins from them and always hanging around asking questions. One of the good ones for sure!

Another note to just say again who good this dealership is to work with. Mentioned in an earlier note on this thread that an indy here has been futzing with alignment on this car since last fall when we reported feathering on the front tires. Problem reappeared after a new set of tires were installed, 3k miles in we had feathering again. They realigned, 3k miles in last week, feather reappearing on the tires (swapped rear to front at the first alignment).

Gave the indy one last shot last week, no charge to me, claimed everything was withing spec. Went to Nashua yesterday, really treated me like a decent human being with a modicum of intelligence, showed me how far off the indy's alignment was, mentioned that agressive treads like I have on the new set can be a problem, aligned the thing for $140.

Now, off to the indy with the report in hand asking for the charges back and seeing what they want to do about the trashed, noisy tires with 6k on them before I take them to small claims court.

Great dealership. Wish it wasn't 2 hours away!

Jeff

[JBell]

Just wanted to say that I started having this issue with my 2008 B7 a couple months ago. The rev would go up and down by 100 RPMs, or so, but only when it was cold out. Took it by the dealer and they confirmed that there was slippage in the torque converter. Apparently there's a TSB out there on it. Luckily, I still had some time left on my CPO warranty and everything was covered for the repair.

Don't know how much it would have cost but it sounded pretty labor intensive as the SC informed me that they had to remove the transmission to be able to replace the TC.

[wildcat333]

I'm starting to get similar issues again with rpm fluctuation 100-200 RPM's. Only when very cold and when car is not warmed up. I'm at 68,000 miles now. Was at 38,000 when the issue first happened almost 3 years ago exactly. Love it...

[Stathik]

does it idle like that while stopped or in neutral? Mine did that and audi could not figure out what it was. ended up being the PCV valve

x2. And it is covered to 120k miles and didn't have to pay $180 for the service charge

[Hypn0t1q79]

I'm starting to get similar issues again with rpm fluctuation 100-200 RPM's. Only when very cold and when car is not warmed up. I'm at 68,000 miles now. Was at 38,000 when the issue first happened almost 3 years ago exactly. Love it...

I have been noticing it with my car as well. But I haven't gotten the chance to look further into it.

[typeslone]

I'm starting to get similar issues again with rpm fluctuation 100-200 RPM's. Only when very cold and when car is not warmed up. I'm at 68,000 miles now. Was at 38,000 when the issue first happened almost 3 years ago exactly. Love it...


I have the same issue also. The fluctuation is about 100-300rpms also, only when the motor and tip trans are cold, and only at mild part throttle (25% or less). If I give it more throttle, it does go away. This only happens in the winter time, in the summer time I get no fluctuation at all. This winter its been a lot colder than normal in NJ so its been much more noticeable. It normally goes away within 5 or so minutes of driving. I have about 130K on the car now, I bought the car with 80K, its always done this.

[M1GHTYHEALTHY]

[Sigh] I noticed this on my way into work this morning. Unfortunately for me, I bought my car from a used car dealership last Sept. so no coverage for me!

[wildcat333]

Welcome to the club.

[M1GHTYHEALTHY]

I got a "needs torque converter to fix driveability issue." $2,916.60 + tax.

[B72011]

Do some searching......you can find places that rebuild em for much less---then pay indy shop to install. I bet you can knock at least a grand off that total.

[Alex4947]

Does any one know if this is a known issue for Audi? I have a 2006 A6 4.2 and I have had my car in to 8 different shops no one has ever come to the conclusion that it was a TC. I have to be honest regardless of what it is going to cost I am glad to hear someone else had the same issue and that I am not going nuts and hearing things! :)

I just cannot wrap my mind around this being an issue at less then 50k on the clock.


UPDATE:

I picked up my car today. The newly installed torque converter did the trick! They installed it, did a 60 mile road test, checked the computer, and everything was good. I drove it 1.5 hours home tonight with all sorts of driving (city driving, highway, and sporty acceleration) and it is driving perfectly. The RPM's no longer fluctuate where it used to (always when shifting from 4th to 5th around 40 mph) in drive.

It had been in the shop for almost two weeks, which sucked. BUT it made me truly appreciate the car again. It is so much better than the Q5 loaner in my opinion.

Rune, and any others with similar issues: I hope this thread helped. Feel free to message me or reply to this thread for any questions. I wish you the best of luck with your repairs.

NEW TORQUE CONVERTER FTW!!! CPO FTW!!!

Now time for the mods listed in my signature!!! WINNING!!!

[topoguide]

I had this issue at almost 150k on my '08, but only on cold mornings. A transmission fluid change fixed it right up. The mechanic said everything was in great shape inside (likely due to mainly fwy miles by po). - Tranny fluid should be changed every 50k mi from what I have found. It is only a lifetime fluid if you want a short lifespan for your tranny.

[wildcat333]

I had this issue at almost 150k on my '08, but only on cold mornings. A transmission fluid change fixed it right up. The mechanic said everything was in great shape inside (likely due to mainly fwy miles by po). - Tranny fluid should be changed every 50k mi from what I have found. It is only a lifetime fluid if you want a short lifespan for your tranny.

Any idea how much fluid change would cost?

Also - I believe they changed all fluids when I got my new TC. I don't know the mechanics that come with installing a new TC. Can anyone advise if they would have had to put in new transmission fluid when installing the TC?

[szaer]

Any idea how much fluid change would cost?

Also - I believe they changed all fluids when I got my new TC. I don't know the mechanics that come with installing a new TC. Can anyone advise if they would have had to put in new transmission fluid when installing the TC?

There's a nice DIY on it. I think they said ~300-400$ for the parts. Unsure about if you got a shop to do it. I was going to do this at my next oil change ~ 2000 km away, as I have the same revving issue and transmission isnt as smooth when the car is cold.

[topoguide]

Wildcat, yes fluid should have been changed with the tc as the trans had to be drained.

Did they use the Audi fluid? It is very spendy, but all the Audi only mechanics I have talked to (plus research) say to only use Audi fluid or you will shorten the life of the transmission.

Also, cost for parts depends on the model year. The fluid is different for different years/vins. Make sure to buy from Audi based on vin. The mechanic I went to quoted me $400, but without the vin the fluid was quoted wrong and the final parts cost was $450... so he ate the cost of labor.

As for the diy, I could have done it.... but it looked like it was worth it to me to pay $100 in labor for someone else to do it as it turns out to be an all day process once cooling time is figured in.

[wildcat333]

Wildcat, yes fluid should have been changed with the tc as the trans had to be drained.

Did they use the Audi fluid? It is very spendy, but all the Audi only mechanics I have talked to (plus research) say to only use Audi fluid or you will shorten the life of the transmission.

Also, cost for parts depends on the model year. The fluid is different for different years/vins. Make sure to buy from Audi based on vin. The mechanic I went to quoted me $400, but without the vin the fluid was quoted wrong and the final parts cost was $450... so he ate the cost of labor.

As for the diy, I could have done it.... but it looked like it was worth it to me to pay $100 in labor for someone else to do it as it turns out to be an all day process once cooling time is figured in.

Audi Dealer did it under CPO warranty. Thanks for the reply. It was changed at 38k, and I am at 77k now, so I should be good for a bit.

[vtwinjunkie]

thanks everyone for all the great info! I have an 08 as well with 62k. I will most def keep an eye out for these issues.
Aside for some strange cold trans conditions with shifting my car has been a good since 30k miles (changed fluid with OEM audi at 50k)

[DeepBlue]

I'm starting to get similar issues again with rpm fluctuation 100-200 RPM's. Only when very cold and when car is not warmed up. I'm at 68,000 miles now. Was at 38,000 when the issue first happened almost 3 years ago exactly. Love it...

In the same club as you. Any updates on why it's recurring?

[B7OrangeA4]

Just recently started having this problem slightly. I've been going constant speed and the rpms would fluctuate up or down by 50 at most and at start up according to my boost gauge I'm sitting at -16 in hg also at idle with the occasional -10 in there on start ups. I don't think it's the n80 as in boosting fine all the way up to 19-20 psi. I'm also flushing all my fluids, putting in new plugs end of this week/next week. Which leaves me to believe it's the pcv. If been planning on buying a 034 catch can would that fix the issue?

[Tenedorr]

Hi all I a, having the same issues as described, rpm pulsing under normal easy driving conditions. Under acceleration it either goes away or it's not noticeable. One problem I have that I wonder if any of you also share is under nearly WOT it seems to lose power completely. It doesn't feel like the tranny is slipping it feels more like im flooding out the engine or something, it just dies until I let off the gas pedal then everythings back to normal. Idk if it's rich or lean, I'm going to take a peek at the plugs and see what they look like shortly. I have replaced hpfp, lpfp, plugs, coils, fuel filter. I did drive it for a few weeks in limp mode. Any ideas?

[wildcat333]

Update:
I have rpm bouncing again in cold weather on cold start - about 100 rpm bouncing under similar situations - when at around 42 MPH once it shifts from 4th to 5th gear. Love it!! Will deal with it indefinitely because it doesn't really affect the car in any way besides making me extremely pissed off. And it doesn't do it during the warmer months.

[javo2999]

Update:
I have rpm bouncing again in cold weather on cold start - about 100 rpm bouncing under similar situations - when at around 42 MPH once it shifts from 4th to 5th gear. Love it!! Will deal with it indefinitely because it doesn't really affect the car in any way besides making me extremely pissed off. And it doesn't do it during the warmer months.

Just skimmed through this entire thread and I'm surprised your having this issue again so soon. I guess this is just another reason to live with it, I swear I think I spend more time looking at the RPM gauge while driving then the actual road. I hope once the weather gets warmer it goes away completely, it has subsided considerably from the weather in Dec to Feb. On a side note, have you ever noticed that once it stops fluctuating that the RPM will dip when you accelerate it after holding I.E. 2500rpm 120km/h? I have made a thread with a link to a Youtube video showing it occurring, wondering if anyone else is having this issue as well.

[wildcat333]

@ javo2999 - No - my RPM's do not dip when accelerating like in your situation.

[c@@kieMonsta]

Sigh... My '07 3.2 w/71k miles has this same issue. Fluctuates for the first 5 minutes of driving when it's cold. I haven't checked the tranny oil level yet.

[wildcat333]

Sigh... My '07 3.2 w/71k miles has this same issue. Fluctuates for the first 5 minutes of driving when it's cold. I haven't checked the tranny oil level yet.

Welcome to the club.

[c@@kieMonsta]

Welcome to the club.

I'm wondering why it being cold causes this? This morning, it was much warmer then the previous, and so it didn't fluctuate at all.

[LazyUmp]

My 08 also seems to be having the same issues. Although, mine makes a horrible noise when cold. When the RPMs drop the car makes a rattle-snake like hissing sound. This goes away once the car warms up.

Edit: I've noticed my RPMs bounce also when the engine is warm. The hissing sound is most notable going up hills.

[Milabrega]

Just posted a separate thread with the same question to only find this one! The fluctuating RPMs do not bother me, however. Good to know that after TC was replaced the issue did come back eventually. I'l just keep driving mine, we'll see what happens)

[Cobra351]

I have a weird issue, that I believe may be similar to this... when slowing down from about 5mph to a full stop, the RPM drops just a hair, and the car feels like it'll stall- but it never actually does. I have no codes on VCDS or OBD 2. I was thinking vacuum leak, but wouldn't a CEL be thrown? It's a Quattro Tiptronic.

[Okedokey]

CVT? Normal.

[Cobra351]

CVT? Normal.

Whoops, sorry. Should've specified- Quattro Tiptronic, 137k miles. I read that it's most likely the torque converter- people have changed their torque converters even, and the problem will come back soon anyhow. Just wasn't sure this was the case for me.