2017-2024 Audi A3/TT/TTS/TT RS Gearbox Malfunction TSB 2070217/2

Owners of 2017-2024 Audi A3, 2017-2023 Audi TT, TTS, and TT RS, 2017-2019 Audi A3 Cabriolet, and 2017-2018 Audi A3 Sportback e-tron vehicles may experience issues with their gearbox, including a prominent "Gearbox Malfunction" message on the instrument cluster. This can be accompanied by the vehicle shuddering during driving or the gearbox entering a restricted "Limp Home Mode," where only specific gears (1-3-5-7 or 2-4-6) are accessible. Audi Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 35 24 50 2070217/2, dated May 7, 2024, provides a detailed repair procedure for these conditions, superseding previous bulletin 23-44 from September 15, 2023.

This TSB specifically addresses a hardware issue within the transmission control unit (TCM), which can lead to various diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) being stored. The repair involves a thorough diagnostic process and the careful replacement of the mechatronic unit and associated components to resolve the Audi A3 Gearbox Malfunction and similar issues across affected models.

Symptoms of a Gearbox Malfunction

Owners may observe one or more of the following symptoms indicating an issue with the gearbox:

• The vehicle shudders while driving.
• The gearbox warning lamp is illuminated on the dashboard.
• The message "Gearbox Malfunction" appears on the instrument cluster display.
• The gearbox operates only in Limp Home Mode, restricting available gears to either 1-3-5-7 or 2-4-6.

Fault Codes / DTCs

When these symptoms occur, one or more of the following Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) may be stored in the Transmission Control Module (TCM), also known as -J217- (address word 0002):

DTC Entry	Symptom Code	Description	Gearbox Type
P173500	10666	Clutch position sensor 1, electrical malfunction	0GC/0DL
P173600	10668	Clutch position sensor 2, electrical malfunction	0GC/0DL
P175D00	10693	Clutch 1 opens unintentionally	0GC/0DL
P176E00	10694	Clutch 2 opens unintentionally	0GC/0DL
P175E00	10747	Clutch 1 closes unintentionally	0GC/0DL
P176F00	10748	Clutch 2 closes unintentionally	0GC/0DL
P060700	10658	Control module implausible	0GC/0DL
P060700	10660	Control module implausible	0GC/0DL
P060700	10662	Control module implausible	0GC/0DL
P060700	10664	Control module implausible	0GC/0DL
P176A00	10912	Gear selector 1 cannot be regulated	0GC/0DL
P176B00	10913	Gear selector 2 cannot be regulated	0GC/0DL
P176C00	10914	Gear selector 3 cannot be regulated	0GC/0DL
P176D00	10915	Gear selector 4 cannot be regulated	0GC/0DL
P176A00	10725	Gear selector 1 cannot be regulated	0GC/0DL
P176B00	10726	Gear selector 2 cannot be regulated	0GC/0DL
P176C00	10727	Gear selector 3 cannot be regulated	0GC/0DL
P176D00	10728	Gear selector 4 cannot be regulated	0GC/0DL
P071500	10753	Transmission Input Speed Sensor 1, electrical fault in circuit	0GC/0DL
P276500	10754	Transmission Input Speed Sensor 2, electrical fault in circuit	0GC/0DL
P174A00	10739	Valve 3 in partial transmission 1 electrical malfunction	0DL
P174E00	10740	Valve 3 in partial transmission 2 electrical malfunction	0DL
P173E00	10741	Valve 1 in partial transmission 1 electrical malfunction	0DL
P174C00	10742	Valve 1 in partial transmission 2 electrical malfunction	0DL
P173F00	10743	Valve 2 in partial transmission 1 electrical malfunction	0DL
P174D00	10744	Valve 2 in partial transmission 2 electrical malfunction	0DL

Diagnosis and Trigger Conditions

Diagnosis for the Audi A3 Gearbox Malfunction begins with checking the software and hardware part numbers and version numbers of the Transmission Control Unit (TCM). Technicians use the Offboard Diagnostic Information System (ODIS) and must have baseline version 2023.03.01 / 2.30.5 or higher installed. The TSB specifies the following diagnostic data versions:

• GFF DIDB brand: A
• GFF DIDB version: 2023.05.01
• GFF DIDB language: en_US
• GFF technical version: 2.31.1
• Base DIDB version: 2023.5.2.AutoGenerated
• Base DIDB language: en_US
• DTC_Exclusion Version: 339.0.0

The process involves reading and transmitting 89 specific values from the global variables under the address DA0002 at the start of the diagnostic session. A diagnostic protocol must be saved. Guided Fault Finding is then performed based on any relevant event memory entries. If prompted for a TSB or TPI number during the test plan, technicians should enter 2058356.

Important Warnings for Owners and Technicians

Audi has issued several critical warnings related to this TSB 35 24 50 2070217/2:

• TSB Applicability: "If the installed Software part number and Software version number is not included in the table below, then this TSB does not apply." Similarly, "If there are less than 89 values this TSB repair will not work, and it does not apply to the vehicle." and "If the installed mechatronics unit does not have index that matches one of the parts tables below this TSB does not apply to the vehicle!"
• Parts Ordering: "Parts cannot be ordered until Step 11 of this TSB has been completed and the index of the Mechatronics unit is shown in one of the lists below!" and "Only order parts for the correct index of the Mechatronics unit!" Furthermore, "Red Order all parts using the VIN of vehicle when ordering!"
• Immobilizer Readaptation: "The immobilizer must be readapted after replacing the control unit. For this purpose, it is essential that all vehicle keys are present at the time of the repair."
• Mechatronic Unit Handling: "The sensors are on the back of the mechatronics unit and must not be touched/damaged. The mechatronic unit must not be placed down on its sensors." Also, "You must ensure the highest levels of cleanliness for all work on the mechatronic unit. Even the smallest dirt particles or hairs in the system can lead to restricted functions and ultimately to failure of the mechatronic unit." Technicians are specifically warned to "Do not touch the contacts or electronic components directly" and to ensure "the contacts on the valves are not bent or damaged" during contact plate removal. When fitting the new contact plate, it is crucial to ensure "all of the contacts are inserted in the intended/correct connector and do not get bent."

Detailed Repair Procedure

The repair for the Audi A3 Gearbox Malfunction involves a multi-step process focused on the mechatronic unit, requiring precision and adherence to specific instructions:

1. Initial Check: Verify the Transmission Control Unit's (TCM) software and hardware part numbers and versions. The TSB provides tables of valid software part numbers (e.g., 0GC300042J, 0GC300012A, 0GC300012M, 0GC300013M, 0GC300013N, 0GC300014B, 0GC300043A, 0GC300044H, 0DL300012H, 0DL300013E, 0DL300013L) and corresponding software version numbers (e.g., 1402, 1403, 2308, 2401, 2402, 2404, 2405, 2406, 2303, 2111, 2112, 3020, 3023, 3104, 3101). If the installed versions do not match, this TSB does not apply.
2. Diagnostic Software Update: Ensure the ODIS diagnostic software is updated to the required baseline version (2023.03.01 / 2.30.5 or higher).
3. Data Collection: Expand the "Global Variables" section in ODIS. Read and transmit 89 specific global variable values under address DA0002. Save the diagnostic protocol. If fewer than 89 values are present, the TSB repair is not applicable.
4. Guided Fault Finding: Perform Guided Fault Finding based on any relevant event memory entries. If prompted for a TSB or TPI number, enter 2058356.
5. Mechatronic Index Identification: Identify the 4-letter index of the Mechatronic unit from the test plan results (e.g., OGCE) and compare it to the parts lists provided in the TSB.
6. Parts Ordering: If the mechatronic index is found in the TSB's parts lists, upload the GFF log to GFF paperless and order the correct parts. Remember that all vehicle keys are required for immobilizer readaptation after control unit replacement.
7. Mechatronic Unit Removal: Carefully remove the mechatronics unit from the gearbox according to the repair manual. Special care must be taken not to damage the sensors on the back of the unit. The mechatronic unit should not be placed down on its sensors.
8. Contact Plate Detachment: Detach the contact plate from the mechatronic unit by loosening and removing the specific bolts (referencing Figure 11 for 0GC Transmission or Figure 12 for 0DL Transmission). This step requires precision to avoid bending or damaging the valve contacts.
9. Gearbox Control Unit Removal: Unscrew the four bolts (A, D short and B, C long) that secure the gearbox control unit, then carefully detach it from the mechatronic unit.
10. Seal Replacement: Replace the seals for the pressure sensors (Figure 17), ensuring they are correctly seated.
11. Reassembly - Control Unit: Reassemble the components in reverse order. Tighten the control unit with new bolts in two stages:
    • Stage 1: Bolts A and D (short) to 6 Nm; Bolts B and C (long) to 4.5 Nm.
    • Stage 2: Bolts A and D (short) to 8 Nm + 30°; Bolts B and C (long) to 5 Nm + 25°.
12. Reassembly - Contact Plate: Fit the new contact plate, ensuring it engages audibly and that all contacts are properly inserted without bending. Tighten the contact plate bolts in two stages with specific torque values and sequences:
    • For 0GC Transmission (Figure 20):
      • Stage 1: 2 Nm
      • Stage 2: 3 Nm + 30°
      • Tightening sequence: 1 -> 2 -> 3 -> 12 -> 5 -> 4 -> 11 -> 10 -> 9 -> 8 -> 6 -> 7
    • For 0DL Transmission (Figure 21):
      • Stage 1: 2 Nm
      • Stage 2: 3 Nm + 45°
      • Tightening sequence: 1 -> 2 -> 3 -> 4 -> 5 -> 6 -> 7 -> 8 -> 9 -> 10 -> 11
13. Final Assembly: Reassemble the mechatronics unit with a new cover into the transmission, including refilling the transmission with oil according to the repair manual.
14. Control Unit Activation: Activate the new control unit using the Guided Function "0002 - Replace mechatronic unit (control unit)".
15. Basic Settings: Perform basic settings for the gearbox.

Required Tools and Parts

Performing this repair for the Audi A3 Gearbox Malfunction requires specific tools and parts. A crucial special tool is the VAS 6613 ESD Work Surface, necessary for handling the sensitive mechatronic unit. Parts ordering is contingent on the mechatronic unit's index, which must be determined during diagnosis. Always verify the exact part numbers with your Audi Parts Department using your vehicle's VIN and the mechatronic unit's index.

Common Parts List (0GC Transmission for A3 and TT)

Part Number	Part Description	Quantity
See ETKA	Fasteners, Bolts, Nuts and Screws as needed per the Repair Manual	See ETKA/ELSA
0GC 927 711 G VI1	Control unit	01
0GC 927 709 A	Contact plate	01
N 101 243 04	Bolt for control unit (short)	02
N 104 057 05	Bolt for control unit (long)	02
N 904 552 02	Bolt for contact plate	12
WHT 004 007 B	O-ring for pressure sensor	02
0GC 325 201 *	Cover for mechatronic unit (use part number according to ETKA)	01
N 105 540 02	Bolt for mechatronic unit	09
N 910 327 02	Bolt for cover for mechatronic unit	04
0BH 325 147	Retaining clip	01
N 043 809 2	Oil seal	01
G 055 529 A2	Gear oil	07

Parts List for Mechatronics Unit Index 0GCE or 0GCH (A3 and TT)

Part Number	Part Description	Quantity
See ETKA	Fasteners, Bolts, Nuts and Screws as needed per the Repair Manual	See ETKA/ELSA
0GC 927 711 H VI1	Control unit	01
0GC 927 709 A	Contact plate	01
N 101 243 04	Bolt for control unit (short)	02
N 104 057 05	Bolt for control unit (long)	02

Parts List for 0DL Transmission (RS3 and TTRS) - Index 0GC* (*Any 4th digit)

Part Number	Part Description	Quantity
See ETKA	Fasteners, Bolts, Nuts and Screws as needed per the Repair Manual	See ETKA/ELSA
0GC 927 711 H VI1	Control unit	01
0GC 927 709 A	Contact plate	01
N 101 243 04	Bolt for control unit (short)	02
N 104 057 05	Bolt for control unit (long)	02
N 904 552 02	Bolt for contact plate	12
WHT 004 007 B	O-ring for pressure sensor	02
0GC 325 201 H	Cover for mechatronic unit	01
N 105 540 02	Bolt for mechatronic unit	09
N 910 327 02	Bolt for cover for mechatronic unit	04
0BH 325 147	Retaining clip	01
N 043 809 2	Oil seal	01
N 013 813 2	Oil seal	01
G 055 529 A2	Gear oil	07

Parts List for 0DL Transmission (RS3 and TTRS) - Index 0BH* (*Any 4th digit)

Part Number	Part Description	Quantity
See ETKA	Fasteners, Bolts, Nuts and Screws as needed per the Repair Manual	See ETKA/ELSA
0GC 927 711 H VI1	Control unit	01
0BH 927 709 A	Contact plate	01
N 101 243 04	Bolt for control unit (short)	02
N 104 057 05	Bolt for control unit (long)	02
N 904 552 02	Bolt for contact plate	11
WHT 004 007 B	O-ring for pressure sensor	02
0GC 325 201 H	Cover for mechatronic unit	01
N 105 540 02	Bolt for mechatronic unit	09
N 910 327 02	Bolt for cover for mechatronic unit	04
0BH 325 147	Retaining clip	01
N 043 809 2	Oil seal	01
N 013 813 2	Oil seal	01
G 052 182 A2	Gear oil	07

Parts List for 0DL Transmission (RS3 and TTRS) - Index 0DL* (*Any 4th digit)

Part Number	Part Description	Quantity
See ETKA	Fasteners, Bolts, Nuts and Screws as needed per the Repair Manual	See ETKA/ELSA
0GC 927 711 H VI1	Control unit	01
0BH 927 709 A	Contact plate	01
N 101 243 04	Bolt for control unit (short)	02
N 104 057 05	Bolt for control unit (long)	02
N 904 552 02	Bolt for contact plate	11
WHT 004 007 B	O-ring for pressure sensor	02
0GC 325 201 H	Cover for mechatronic unit	01
N 105 540 02	Bolt for mechatronic unit	09
N 910 327 02	Bolt for cover for mechatronic unit	04
0BH 325 147	Retaining clip	01
N 043 809 2	Oil seal	01
N 013 813 2	Oil seal	01
G 052 182 A2	Gear oil	07

Warranty Information

Warranty claims for this Audi A3 Gearbox Malfunction repair fall under Claim Type 110, covering up to 48 months or 50,000 miles. For Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles, it falls under Claim Type G10, requiring owner verification. If the vehicle is outside warranty, this TSB serves as informational guidance only. The Service Number for this procedure is 3511, with a Damage Code of 0040. Labor operations include:

• Remove and install mechatronic unit: Labor code 3511 19xx (refer to SRT for associated operation).
• Diagnostic Time - GFF: Labor code 0150 0060, with a maximum of 120 Time Units (TU).
• Charge battery: Labor code 2706 8950.
• Road test prior to service procedure: No allowance, 0 TU.
• Road test after service procedure: No allowance, 0 TU.

All warranty claims must adhere to the Audi Warranty Policies and Procedures Manual, and the claim comment should reference TSB 2070217/2.

Owner Action

If your 2017-2024 Audi A3, TT, TTS, or TT RS is exhibiting symptoms such as shuddering, a gearbox warning light, the "Gearbox Malfunction" message, or limp home mode, it is recommended to contact an authorized Audi dealership. Provide them with the symptoms you are experiencing and mention Technical Service Bulletin 35 24 50 2070217/2. The dealership technicians will perform the necessary diagnostic steps to confirm if your vehicle is affected by the hardware issue in the transmission control unit and proceed with the appropriate repair.

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Source: NHTSA ID: 11002121