Transmission and Accessories

Is your Audi changing gear harshly, is the clutch slipping or do you hear a grinding or humming noise from the drivetrain? The gearbox may be involved, but similar symptoms can also come from the clutch, mechatronic unit, torque converter, differential or a driveshaft.

At Donkers VAG Parts, you will find genuine used Audi transmissions and drivetrain parts. The parts come from vehicles dismantled in-house. This means information about the donor vehicle, gearbox code and drivetrain specification is often available.

Manual and automatic transmissions

Audi used several transmission types across its model range. These include manual gearboxes, S tronic, DSG, Tiptronic and Multitronic units.

Depending on current stock, this category may include:

• complete gearboxes;
• gearbox casings;
• mechatronic units;
• transmission control units;
• selector mechanisms;
• related gearbox parts.

The general transmission name is not enough to identify the correct unit. Two S tronic or Tiptronic gearboxes may use different internal ratios, clutch systems or electronic versions.

The gearbox code is therefore the main starting point. Compare it with the complete part number and donor vehicle details before ordering.

Clutches, flywheels and torque converters

This category may also include clutch assemblies, dual-mass flywheels and torque converters.

A worn clutch may cause slipping, juddering or delayed power transfer. Noise when starting or switching off the engine may also come from the dual-mass flywheel.

On automatic transmissions, a worn torque converter may cause vibration, excessive slip or an uneven take-up of drive. Similar symptoms can also be caused by incorrect oil level, the mechatronic unit or internal transmission wear.

The fault should be narrowed down before replacing a major component.

Differentials and quattro drivetrain parts

Depending on current stock, you may also find:

• front and rear differentials;
• transfer cases;
• propshafts;
• driveshafts;
• output flanges;
• transmission mounts.

On quattro models, the gearbox and differential ratios must match. If the ratios are different, parts of the drivetrain may remain under continuous load. This can cause noise and additional wear.

Do not identify a differential or transfer case by appearance alone. Check the relevant code, part number and ratio information.

Mechatronic units and electronic parts

A mechatronic unit combines hydraulic and electronic transmission control. Faults may cause harsh gear changes, delayed engagement or reduced-power mode.

A stored fault code does not always prove that the mechatronic unit itself has failed. Oil level, wiring, sensors, clutch values or internal wear may produce similar symptoms.

For mechatronic units and transmission control units, hardware and software versions may affect compatibility. Coding, parameterisation or adaptation may be required after installation.

Work after installation

After fitting an automatic transmission or mechatronic unit, further work may be needed.

This may include:

• filling with the specified transmission oil;
• checking the oil level at the correct temperature;
• carrying out a basic setting;
• resetting adaptation values;
• completing an adaptation drive;
• coding or software configuration.

Transmission oil coolers, pipes and related parts should also be checked for contamination. If the original transmission failed internally, replacing the gearbox alone may not be sufficient.

Our workshop has practical experience with transmission replacements and more complex Audi drivetrain projects. This helps when assessing differences between gearbox, engine and quattro versions.

Condition and scope of supply

A genuine used transmission has already been fitted and used in another vehicle. Mileage, condition and included parts therefore vary between listings.

Check the product page for:

• gearbox code;
• complete part number;
• recorded mileage;
• included mechatronic unit or torque converter;
• output flanges and mounting parts;
• donor vehicle details;

A transmission described as complete does not always include every surrounding component. The photographs and product description show what is supplied.

Finding the correct part

Before ordering, check:

• the complete gearbox code;
• engine code;
• complete part number, including the suffix;
• front-wheel drive or quattro;
• model and model year;
• differential or transfer-case code where relevant;
• flange and connector design;
• hardware and software version;
• donor vehicle specification.

The Audi model name and general transmission type are rarely enough to confirm compatibility.

Looking for a gearbox, mechatronic unit, differential or driveshaft for your Audi? Start by comparing the gearbox code, complete part number and drivetrain specification. If you are unsure, send us the vehicle identification number and details from the existing transmission. We can then check which version may be suitable for your vehicle.