2021-2022 Audi DQ381 Clutch K1 Overheating TSB

Audi has issued Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 2060560/4 to address specific transmission concerns in various 2021-2022 Audi models equipped with the DQ381 gearbox. This bulletin focuses on issues related to high maximum temperature recorded for clutch K1, which can lead to noticeable driving problems. If you are experiencing symptoms of an Audi DQ381 clutch overheating, this TSB provides the diagnostic and repair information for technicians.

Symptoms of Audi DQ381 Clutch Overheating

Owners of affected Audi vehicles may observe one or more of the following symptoms related to an Audi DQ381 clutch overheating:

• Clutch slip: The vehicle may experience the clutch slipping when pulling away from a stop.
• Gearbox Malfunction Message: A warning message, specifically "The gearbox malfunction message appears in the instrument cluster," may be displayed.
• Shuddering during shifts: The vehicle might shudder when shifting to odd-numbered gears, such as during a 2nd to 3rd gear change or a 4th to 5th gear change.

These symptoms indicate that the transmission's clutch K1 may be operating at excessively high temperatures.

Fault Codes / DTCs

During diagnosis, technicians may find various Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) stored in the Transmission Control Module (TCM), specifically the J217 control unit (address word 0002). These DTCs are related to clutch and gear changing issues, such as "gear 1 not adjustable" or "clutch slip."

Additionally, this TSB references a previous bulletin, TSB 2050723, which addresses the "35 Gearbox Malfunction Warning" and specific DTCs. The relevant DTCs mentioned in connection with gearbox malfunction warnings are:

• P176F00
• P176E00
• P175E00

These codes, when present in the TCM, further support the diagnosis of an Audi DQ381 clutch overheating issue.

Diagnosis and Trigger Conditions

Workshop findings that confirm the Audi DQ381 clutch overheating issue include:

• The customer-reported symptoms can be consistently reproduced.
• Measured values in the gearbox indicate that the calculated maximum temperature of clutch K1 is approximately 400 °C.
• The transmission fluid may smell burnt and appear black or very dark in color, signaling severe overheating and degradation.

Repair Procedure Summary

To address the high clutch K1 temperature and associated driving problems, Audi Technical Service Bulletin 2060560/4 outlines a specific repair procedure. The primary steps involve replacing key components of the transmission system:

1. Dual Clutch Replacement: The entire dual clutch assembly is to be replaced.
2. ATF Filter Replacement: The automatic transmission fluid (ATF) filter must be replaced.
3. Gear Oil Replacement: The transmission's gear oil is to be replaced with fresh fluid.

This comprehensive replacement ensures that components affected by the Audi DQ381 clutch overheating are fully renewed, restoring proper transmission function. The procedure also involves labor operations such as removing and installing the gearbox, and performing road tests before and after the service to ensure the repair is effective.

Required Tools or Parts

The repair process detailed in TSB 2060560/4 requires specific labor operations, identified by internal service numbers:

• 3435 19XX: Remove and install gearbox.
• 3060 19XX: Multiple clutch remove + reinstall.
• 0150 0060: GFF (Guided Fault Finding) diagnostic protocol.
• 2706 8950: Charge Battery.
• 0121 0002: Road test prior to service procedure (10 TU).
• 0121 0004: Road test after service procedure (10 TU).

Owners should note that warranty claims for this repair are subject to the Audi Warranty Policies and Procedures Manual.

What Owners Should Know

If your Audi is exhibiting symptoms of an Audi DQ381 clutch overheating, it is crucial to have it inspected by an authorized Audi service center. This Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 2060560/4 provides technicians with the necessary steps to diagnose and repair the issue. While TSBs are primarily for dealer guidance, knowing about this bulletin can help you communicate effectively with your service advisor.

This bulletin, Transaction No. 2060560/4, supersedes previous revisions, including those from March 5, 2024, and January 12, 2023, which adjusted model years covered. The information in this TSB is current as of its release date of July 31, 2025.

NHTSA ID: 11021441