New C5 allroad 2.7t owner - Transmission issues

[Ryes7]

Good morning, happy Sunday

Quick intro-

I’m a longtime Audi fan, first one was an 07 S6 V10 back in 2011. Loved that car until the timing chain tensioners started rattling loudly around 100k miles. Sold it for practically nothing. Tried the STi thing for a bit, bought a brand new 2016 Limited in silver (traded trunks immediately to get rid of the picnic table wing). I then felt the urge to get back into an Audi again as the Subaru felt very “economy car”, even in the Limited trim. Sold the STI and just drove my work truck around until I had enough saved up to get my dream car, an RS7. Found a Panther Black Pearl 2014 w/ one owner and 48k miles, it was located *kinda* locally. Dream achieved , still have it, still love it. It’s got 71k and has been problem free, besides some tire issues, 21” rims in the mountains with crappy roads is not a good combo. I do want a 2021+ RS6 eventually, but yeahhh, not quite there yet. Long story long, a b5 s4 6spd Nogaro Avant with 149k miles popped up on here in Oregon and I HAD to have it. Flew out and drove it back to CO. Dream from long ago achieved which brings me to the current situation.

A 2.7t allroad Auto in dolphin grey popped up quite locally with 69k miles, a very nice but smoky smelling interior, airbags replaced with coils, weird wheels, some random but not crazy body damage (front bumper damaged, dents on the blades, unique scratches on the hood and scratches and dents everywhere but not totally horrible, and no visible rust) and….”transmission issues”. So it was very cheap. The issues are somewhat difficult to describe but I will try my best: after resetting the codes with my scanner, it drives great in gears 1-3 then when you get to 4-5 it gets pretty funky. It will say the gear is selected on the display, but it will rev up and not engage. When trying to tip back down to 3, it works but might take a bit to actually go back down to 3rd. I did try to leave it in D and went to a safe road to test and let it go through the gears automatically. At one point it got to fifth and I tried to give it gas and it revved up and gave a nice hard clunk and the cluster where it reads PRNDS went red and went into limp mode. I reset the codes and 1-3 resumed ok. Decided to work on it more later.

I have done about 3 hrs of research and there’s a few different things I came across that could be the culprits. And before everyone says “Just 6sp swap it!” I’m not totally interested in going that route for 2 reasons: financially speaking, it’s not worth it to me because of the shape of the body. But if I can get it operational I may keep it for a bit as a beater until my s4 needs the block, then I can part out the interior, and maybe a couple of the doors. Or I get it operational and sell it for a modest profit while disclosing everything I know about it. Previous owner did buy a TCM and tried that already before giving up. Also the transmission swap is beyond my mechanical abilities and available free time to try to stumble through it these days.

Here’s my initial plan, anyone can chime in if you have any thoughts or other questions:

1. Check/add/replace transmission fluid and pray.

2. Look into the Valve Solenoids. Don’t want to spend a fortune and honestly do not know what I’m doing when it comes to auto transmission systems but I’m not a total idiot. So if anyone might want to chime in on that process, I’d love an expert to weigh in. I found a nice YouTube video that talks about replacing a transgo valve and it gives some nice explanations on what’s going on in there.

3. Look into the “A clutch”. Is this practical or feasible, or am I looking at spending a fortune and 20 hrs of labor?

I did use the search function but there is SO much, hence the creation of this post. I’m planning on putting her on quickjacks today and getting at the fluid with the assistance of a buddy with a fluid pump, will report findings later. If anybody has a previous post on this or experienced something similar that they can link me to, I’d be really grateful to help me narrow down a better plan of attack. I am willing to spend some time and money to get this puppy going again, just would like to keep it somewhat within reason or else I’ll just commit to the part out.

Hope everyone is having an awesome Sunday

Appreciate you guys here’s “Dolphina”

[Audibot]

Hey welcome! Always great to have another owner! Super low miles!!

Color-wise, that is Atlas Gray--looks like my old one. And Dolphin is darker and wasn't a C5 color (I had a B7 dolphin). Sorry if that ruins your naming.

Your issue to me sounds like clutches are slipping when it attempts to shift into that gear. I don't think a fluid drain and fill will do much to help, but it is a low-cost item compared to anything else and I'm doubtful it's been done, honestly.

With you deeming a swap beyond you (including swapping an auto for auto), I'm sorry to say you are probably going to be stuck paying someone a bunch. But maybe someone on the forum nearby can do it for you for much lower if you supply the parts. I'm aware that some folks (not by username) who can have a trans out in a couple hours or less. And they may be handy enough to rebuild.

You may want to check out the C5 forum on FB too and see who's out there or what reputable shops there.

[Ryes7]

Hey welcome! Always great to have another owner! Super low miles!!

Color-wise, that is Atlas Gray--looks like my old one. And Dolphin is darker and wasn't a C5 color (I had a B7 dolphin). Sorry if that ruins your naming.

Your issue to me sounds like clutches are slipping when it attempts to shift into that gear. I don't think a fluid drain and fill will do much to help, but it is a low-cost item compared to anything else and I'm doubtful it's been done, honestly.

With you deeming a swap beyond you (including swapping an auto for auto), I'm sorry to say you are probably going to be stuck paying someone a bunch. But maybe someone on the forum nearby can do it for you for much lower if you supply the parts. I'm aware that some folks (not by username) who can have a trans out in a couple hours or less. And they may be handy enough to rebuild.

You may want to check out the C5 forum on FB too and see who's out there or what reputable shops there.

Thanks so much for the reply regarding the color: You learn something everyday lol thank you for clarifying and yes, it screws up my naming scheme, oh well. That’s a good point about swapping auto for auto. My buddy had to cancel on helping me with the fluids. I did look underneath and discovered the trans pan has a huge dent in it. Not sure if it’s part of the issue. There are a few local allroad fanatics that’s are also mechanics that live around here that I am going to approach for ideas. Thanks so much.

[Audibot]

Doubt the dent has much to do with it. But if/when you're doing a drain and fill service, that's as good a time as any to check it out.

[baxx]

You may want to check your spider hose for leaks - this can effect clutch apply.

[Ryes7]

That’s a great idea. I did notice there is quite a bit of oil leaking from random places too. The 2.7t, the gift that always keeps on giving Thanks everybody

[ShelbyM3]

Congratulations! You’re doomed! Haha! It’s karma for stealing that gorgeous B5 from my home state

It looks like that is damage from being low, to me. That consistent scraping across the middle is odd and it’s on the subframe, too. Anywho, I’m with Audibot. You’re probably going to end up putting a new transmission in it any way you look at it. The ole 5HP19 is not known for being robust. And don’t let anyone try to tell you otherwise. Allroads in particular are usually so neglected that they destroy themselves. It’s probably not worth trying to save it at this point, from a cost standpoint. If you pay someone to replace it you’ll never get your money back and a manual swap is probably too expensive, based on your post.
QuickJacks would lead me to believe you are handy and maybe now is the time to get more handy? The 2.7 IS the gift that keeps on giving!
Looking forward to your progress! Thanks for posting!


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[Ryes7]

Congratulations! You’re doomed! Haha! It’s karma for stealing that gorgeous B5 from my home state

It looks like that is damage from being low, to me. That consistent scraping across the middle is odd and it’s on the subframe, too. Anywho, I’m with Audibot. You’re probably going to end up putting a new transmission in it any way you look at it. The ole 5HP19 is not known for being robust. And don’t let anyone try to tell you otherwise. Allroads in particular are usually so neglected that they destroy themselves. It’s probably not worth trying to save it at this point, from a cost standpoint. If you pay someone to replace it you’ll never get your money back and a manual swap is probably too expensive, based on your post.
QuickJacks would lead me to believe you are handy and maybe now is the time to get more handy? The 2.7 IS the gift that keeps on giving!
Looking forward to your progress! Thanks for posting!


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Definitely doomed, you’re funny. Definitely karma, the B5 was much more beautiful in person when I first rolled up on it from the uber. I didn’t love the SSR wheels that were on it when viewing the ad. In person though, they are a whole different experience. There are plenty of things wrong with it if you want to get nit picky but I’ve already replaced the valve cover gaskets, n75 valve, Cam position sensor, transmission mounts, fixed boost leaks using a smoke machine, replaced the head unit, speakers, added a sub and back up camera(that sucked), changed fog lights to diode dynamics expensive yellow ones(one burnt out on the way home), added a front plate filler piece from a fellow audizine member jreider to replace the one with terrible holes in it that looked like someone did it blindfolded, raised rear coilovers for snow clearance and added snow tires and wheels(rotiform dtm). Oh, and changed the oil. I have learned quite a lot recently and have expanded my knowledge about working on cars exponentially since obtaining the b5. I used to pay people for everything due to a busy schedule but I’ve fought for more free time in my life and this is how I would LOVE to spend more of it, I’ve decided.

Spider hose actually looked good.

Next steps: I have started looking for a used auto transmission. I think I’ll try and swap the trans(aka try myself before I give up and pay someone if I have to), replace the front bumper, find a new skid plate, and improve the interior bits and bobs a little bit. I will upload pics after I put the glovebox back together since the previous owner removed it to swap the TCM.

Also, would LOVE to try and get rid of the smoke smell if anyone has any ideas for products I should use. I am realistic and will accept if I can’t fully get rid of it but would be willing to try things that people feel helped them out in similar situations.

I sincerely appreciate everyone’s input and honesty. It really helps, big time.

[ShelbyM3]

You’re in the right place, my guy. We can help you get her back up and on the road.

Back when I worked in autosales in college we would put ozone machines in cars to get rid of the smells. Maybe you could find one cheap on Amazon now days?
https://a.co/d/31rePmv

Smoke test it and get ready to replace all the top end gaskets and do a full timing service. It’ll be fun!!!

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[Audibot]

x2 on ozone machine for getting rid of that smoke smell

[SleeperA6]

Definitely doomed, you’re funny. Definitely karma, the B5 was much more beautiful in person when I first rolled up on it from the uber. I didn’t love the SSR wheels that were on it when viewing the ad. In person though, they are a whole different experience. There are plenty of things wrong with it if you want to get nit picky but I’ve already replaced the valve cover gaskets, n75 valve, Cam position sensor, transmission mounts, fixed boost leaks using a smoke machine, replaced the head unit, speakers, added a sub and back up camera(that sucked), changed fog lights to diode dynamics expensive yellow ones(one burnt out on the way home), added a front plate filler piece from a fellow audizine member jreider to replace the one with terrible holes in it that looked like someone did it blindfolded, raised rear coilovers for snow clearance and added snow tires and wheels(rotiform dtm). Oh, and changed the oil. I have learned quite a lot recently and have expanded my knowledge about working on cars exponentially since obtaining the b5. I used to pay people for everything due to a busy schedule but I’ve fought for more free time in my life and this is how I would LOVE to spend more of it, I’ve decided.

Spider hose actually looked good.

Next steps: I have started looking for a used auto transmission. I think I’ll try and swap the trans(aka try myself before I give up and pay someone if I have to), replace the front bumper, find a new skid plate, and improve the interior bits and bobs a little bit. I will upload pics after I put the glovebox back together since the previous owner removed it to swap the TCM.

Also, would LOVE to try and get rid of the smoke smell if anyone has any ideas for products I should use. I am realistic and will accept if I can’t fully get rid of it but would be willing to try things that people feel helped them out in similar situations.

I sincerely appreciate everyone’s input and honesty. It really helps, big time.

Sorry to hear about the transmission, I am in the middle of replacing my busted 6 speed and I had a mechanic do it, his quote was roughly 2800 for 2 days of labor and fluids for the job. Phil at Audis4parts has complete swap kits for auto allroads I believe.

I don’t recommend starting that unless you can finish, mechanics aren’t a fan of that generally, if you aren’t 100% committed then save the headache.


Definitely an ozone machine for the interior, it works wonders.


My eventual plan is to get the tools and garage space to drop the whole front subframe as a unit, I am just not setup for it, so I decided when mine went it wasn’t a job I was positive I could do. I envy the guys here who can knock this stuff out easy.

[Ryes7]

Got the ozonator pumping today. Going to leave it overnight and see how we fare. I’m pretty convinced that my issue might be a valve solenoid (or two). Has anyone attempted to tackle this endeavor? And where would one find such a part(or parts) for this?

[baxx]

Got the ozonator pumping today. Going to leave it overnight and see how we fare. I’m pretty convinced that my issue might be a valve solenoid (or two). Has anyone attempted to tackle this endeavor? And where would one find such a part(or parts) for this?

https://www.sonnax.com/tech_resource...identification. May be worth checking out.

[Ryes7]

https://www.sonnax.com/tech_resource...identification. May be worth checking out.

Amazing, thank you! I am well versed with ohm meter reading from working on residential low volt applications extremely grateful.


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[Avantly]

Check this thread:

https://www.audizine.com/forum/showt...01V-no-reverse

It doesn't sound like you have the pressure regulator valve issue, but I wonder if you could have a valve end cap leaking. OP in that thread found broken clip, he put the end cap back in place and replaced the clip with good results.



After ozone treatment, I use one of those "car bombs", the cans you set off and they fill the car with a deodorizer. I set the HVAC to recirculation, set temperature approximately equal to cabin temperature to try and get the blend doors close to the halfway position, set low fan speed, touch off the can, shut the door, then disconnect the battery after it circulates everywhere and let the car sit a little while. That combined with the ozone generator has worked great for me. I always do the ozone generator first but I have no idea if it is better to use the aerosol can before or after.

[Ryes7]

Swapped the valve solenoids with a refurbed kit from eBay. Same symptoms. I think I’ve given up on the tranny recovery mission. Thanks all for the input and advice



Sorry for the blurry pic, what a messy job

[ShelbyM3]

Swapped the valve solenoids with a refurbed kit from eBay. Same symptoms. I think I’ve given up on the tranny recovery mission. Thanks all for the input and advice



Sorry for the blurry pic, what a messy job

Well piss! I’m sorry about your luck. Proud of you for getting under there and giving it a go! Maybe even, you surprised yourself!

What’s your next move?

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[Ryes7]

Well piss! I’m sorry about your luck. Proud of you for getting under there and giving it a go! Maybe even, you surprised yourself!

What’s your next move?

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Felt like It was worth a shot. I definitely realized that working on auto transmissions is NOT for the faint of heart. I am proud of myself that it at least worked the same as before I took it out and didn’t run like total lol

I think the next move is to part out the interior and pull the motor to start the build for my B5. I’ll start with the leaky valve cover gaskets then likely move to the timing, then turbos. I’m still undecided which route to go for the turbos but I’m thinking I’ll keep it conservative and just do K04’s.

I do wish I could have gotten it running with ease but I feel like I’d put $4-5k into it before I’d really be happy with it. Plus I can’t stand the wheels and the suspension feels/sounds craptacular so I’d have to spend another $4-5k, which I’d rather put into the B5.

Here’s the B5 to plead my case on abandoning the allroad:



You guys are all truly awesome for helping provide input and direction. Feeling grateful for this unique, helpful, and knowledgeable community

[Audibot]

That B5 is definitely worth it!

I'm sure the Allroad body parts can find a good home though.

[ShelbyM3]

Felt like It was worth a shot. I definitely realized that working on auto transmissions is NOT for the faint of heart. I am proud of myself that it at least worked the same as before I took it out and didn’t run like total lol

I think the next move is to part out the interior and pull the motor to start the build for my B5. I’ll start with the leaky valve cover gaskets then likely move to the timing, then turbos. I’m still undecided which route to go for the turbos but I’m thinking I’ll keep it conservative and just do K04’s.

I do wish I could have gotten it running with ease but I feel like I’d put $4-5k into it before I’d really be happy with it. Plus I can’t stand the wheels and the suspension feels/sounds craptacular so I’d have to spend another $4-5k, which I’d rather put into the B5.

Here’s the B5 to plead my case on abandoning the allroad:



You guys are all truly awesome for helping provide input and direction. Feeling grateful for this unique, helpful, and knowledgeable community

I think you’ve definitely got a worthy cause here. We can’t save them all. She will not be forgotten!

Gorgeous B5


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