2013 A4 6 Speed Manual transmission question

[CharleyBoy23]

Hi guys, I bought a used 2013 A4 with manual transmission couple of weeks ago. The car has 25 000 miles. Is it normal that shifting in 2nd or 3rd is not the same "feeling" as 4-5-6? It shifts fine without grinding but I can feel that the shifter has some resistance on it going to 2nd or 3rd, like if there was something in the way but 4 and up is butter smooth. Going from 3rd to 2nd is also "hard", I feel lots of resistance, but it goes in and doesn't make any noise or anything. The dealer tells me it's totally normal, but I'm asking the question here because my last car was not doing that and I am skeptical. Thanks!

[bakedziti]

I would definitely say that is not normal; but judging by your profile, I have to ask the following:

How cold is it where you are?
Is this everytime shifting from 1; 2 ; or 3? Or just while the car (fluids) is still cold?

I ask, because I live in Buffalo, NY and have noticed a considerable difference in the mornings upon cold start up; that's not to say that I feel as if anything is blocking off the gears, but more so that it's a little more difficult to place the shifter. Once the car warms up a little, my shifts are buttery smooth.

[CharleyBoy23]

Thanks for your reply. It is cold but has been warming up here lately. When it's sub 0, it's definitely harder to shift until the car warms up but afterwards it is like I described, it just doesn't feel smooth like 4-5-6 are. It goes into gear but at the end of the throw if feels like i'm hitting something in the shifter. It does it 90% of the time. I've made sure to fully press on the clutch and even when "concentrating" on the shift and try to go very smooth in gear I can still feel it. Audi dealers are far from my place, the closest one is 90 mins drive. There is a reputable repair shop specializing in Audis and VWs not too far from here, I think I'll stop with the car and have someone test drive it to provide an input.

[bakedziti]

I would certainly suggest having someone take a look at it, if possible. It can't really hurt, and will likely ease your mind; it's better to nip this in the bud now rather than wait. Hopefully if anything, it's just a fluid change. Good luck!

[zokissima]

THere is slight tactile differentiation in gearing for sure; it also depends if you're 100% consistent in your shifting; at same points in the rev range, etc. The car also needs to be properly warmed up.

Swing by one day, you can try mine, I'll try yours, we can see if there's a difference.

[CharleyBoy23]

Thanks for the reply guys. Zokissima, I see you are from Montreal. I will be in that area Tuesday and Wednesday next week. Maybe we can meet if the timing is good and see, I would like to try another one to compare for sure. I'll PM you if you want.

[zokissima]

Yup, send me a PM