2021-2024 Audi A3/TT Gearbox Malfunction TSB 2070217/2

Audi has issued Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 35 24 50 2070217/2 to address concerns regarding gearbox warnings and related diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) in the Transmission Control Module (TCM) for various Audi models. This TSB, dated May 7, 2024, supersedes previous bulletin Group 35 number 23-44 from September 15, 2023, and focuses on resolving a hardware issue within the transmission control unit.

Owners of affected 2021-2024 Audi A3 and TT models experiencing specific symptoms related to the gearbox should be aware of this important communication. The repair involves a detailed diagnostic process and the replacement of certain mechatronic unit components.

Symptoms of a Gearbox Malfunction

Owners may notice one or more of the following symptoms, which point to a potential issue with the transmission control unit:

• The vehicle shudders while driving.
• The gearbox warning lamp is illuminated on the instrument cluster.
• The message "Gearbox Malfunction" appears on the instrument cluster display.
• The gearbox only changes gear in Limp Home Mode, meaning it is only possible to drive in gears 1-3-5-7 or 2-4-6.

These symptoms collectively indicate a problem that requires attention, as they can significantly impact vehicle performance and safety. If you experience an Audi A3 gearbox warning, it is crucial to have your vehicle inspected.

Fault Codes / DTCs

When diagnosing this issue, technicians may find one or more of the following Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) 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

This issue is primarily attributed to a hardware problem within the transmission control unit. The diagnostic process for an Audi A3 gearbox warning involves several steps:

1. Software Verification: Technicians must first check the software part number and software version number of the Transmission Control Unit (TCM) using Address 0002, specifically the "02 - Transmission Electronics" system. This ensures the vehicle falls within the scope of TSB 35 24 50 2070217/2.
2. ODIS System Requirement: The Offboard Diagnostic Information System (ODIS) is essential for diagnosis. It must have a baseline version of 2023.03.01 / 2.30.5 or higher installed to proceed correctly.
3. Data Logging and Verification: A critical step involves reading and transmitting 89 specific values from the global variables under address DA0002. Technicians must save the diagnostic protocol. If fewer than 89 values are present, this TSB is not applicable to the vehicle.
4. Guided Fault Finding: The TSB instructs technicians to perform Guided Fault Finding for any relevant event memory entries. If the test plan prompts for a TSB or TPI number, 2058356 should be entered.
5. Mechatronic Index Check: The 4-letter index of the Mechatronic unit, identified during the test plan, must be compared against the parts list tables provided in the TSB. If this index is not found in the approved lists, the TSB does not apply.

Important Warnings for Owners and Technicians

Audi has outlined several crucial warnings within TSB 35 24 50 2070217/2 to ensure proper diagnosis and repair, and to prevent further issues:

• TSB Applicability: This TSB does not apply if the installed software part number and software version number of the TCM are not explicitly listed in the TSB's tables. Incorrect application will not resolve the underlying issue.
• Diagnostic Data Integrity: If the diagnostic process yields fewer than 89 values from the global variables (DA0002), this TSB repair is invalid for the vehicle. In such cases, repairs must follow standard ODIS test plans and the general repair manual.
• Immobilizer Readaptation: Following the replacement of the control unit, the vehicle's immobilizer system must be readapted. It is essential that all vehicle keys are present at the time of this repair procedure.
• Mechatronic Unit Handling: The sensors located on the back of the mechatronic unit are delicate and must not be touched or damaged. Furthermore, the mechatronic unit should never be placed down on its sensors to prevent damage.
• Cleanliness Protocol: Maintaining the highest levels of cleanliness is paramount when working on the mechatronic unit. Even minute dirt particles or hairs can lead to restricted functions and ultimately cause the unit to fail prematurely.
• Parts Ordering Restrictions: Specific parts cannot be ordered until Step 11 of this TSB is successfully completed and the Mechatronics unit's index is confirmed against the approved lists. The correct control unit can only be supplied if the diagnostic log, including the relevant DTC entry and completed test plan, has been sent online.
• Correct Part Index Verification: Technicians must only order parts that correspond to the exact index of the installed Mechatronics unit. If the installed unit's index does not match any of the provided parts tables, this TSB is not applicable to the vehicle.
• VIN-Based Parts Ordering: All required parts must be ordered using the vehicle's unique VIN to ensure compatibility and correctness.

Repair Procedure Summary

Technical Service Bulletin 35 24 50 2070217/2 outlines a comprehensive repair process to address the Audi A3 gearbox warning and associated DTCs by replacing components of the mechatronic unit. The procedure involves several precise steps:

1. Initial Verification: Confirm the software part number and software version of the Transmission Control Unit (TCM). This is a critical first step to ensure the TSB is applicable.
2. Diagnostic System Setup: Ensure the Offboard Diagnostic Information System (ODIS) is updated to the required baseline version (2023.03.01 / 2.30.5 or higher) for accurate diagnosis.
3. Data Acquisition: Read and transmit 89 values from the global variables under address DA0002. This diagnostic log must be saved.
4. Guided Fault Finding: Conduct Guided Fault Finding as per the system's instructions. If prompted, enter TSB/TPI number 2058356.
5. Mechatronic Index Confirmation: Identify the 4-letter index of the Mechatronic unit from the test plan and cross-reference it with the parts lists in the TSB. This step determines the correct parts to order.
6. Parts Procurement: If the Mechatronic index is valid, upload the GFF log and order the necessary genuine parts, including the mechatronic unit, contact plate, bolts, seals, and gear oil, using the vehicle's VIN. Remember that all vehicle keys will be needed for immobilizer readaptation.
7. Mechatronic Unit Removal: Carefully remove the mechatronic unit from the gearbox, following the detailed instructions in the repair manual.
8. Unit Disassembly: Place the mechatronic unit in a specialized assembly aid, ensuring the sensors face downwards to protect them. Detach the contact plate by loosening and removing its bolts, taking extreme care not to bend or damage the valve contacts during separation.
9. Component Replacement: Unscrew the four bolts (A, D short; B, C long) that secure the gearbox control unit. Replace the seals for the pressure sensors, ensuring they are correctly seated to prevent leaks or malfunctions.
10. Reassembly and Torque Specifications: Reattach the gearbox control unit, tightening bolts A and D (short) in two stages: first to 6 Nm, then an additional 8 Nm + 30°. Bolts B and C (long) are tightened first to 4.5 Nm, then 5 Nm + 25°. Fit the new contact plate, ensuring it audibly engages and all contacts are properly inserted. Tighten the contact plate bolts in two stages: Stage 1 at 2 Nm, followed by Stage 2 at 3 Nm + 30° for 0GC transmissions or 3 Nm + 45° for 0DL transmissions, strictly adhering to the specified tightening sequences.
11. Final System Setup: Reassemble the mechatronic unit with its new cover into the transmission, refilling with the correct type and quantity of gear oil. Activate the new control unit using Guided Function "0002 - Replace mechatronic unit (control unit)" and perform basic settings for the gearbox.

Required Tools or Parts

Performing the repair outlined in TSB 35 24 50 2070217/2 requires specific tools and genuine Audi parts to ensure proper function and longevity. Key requirements include:

• Special Tool: VAS 6613 ESD Work Surface, which is essential for handling the sensitive electronic components of the mechatronic unit.
• Control Unit: Various part numbers depending on the specific vehicle and transmission type, such as 0GC 927 711 G VI1, 0GC 927 711 H VI1, or 0BH 927 711 H VI1.
• Contact Plate: Part numbers like 0GC 927 709 A or 0BH 927 709 A.
• Bolts: Specific bolts for the control unit (N 101 243 04, N 104 057 05) and contact plate (N 904 552 02).
• Seals and O-rings: An O-ring for the pressure sensor (WHT 004 007 B) and various oil seals (N 043 809 2, N 013 813 2).
• Mechatronic Unit Cover: Part numbers such as 0GC 325 201 * (where * denotes a variant).
• Gear Oil: Specific gear oil like G 055 529 A2 or G 052 182 A2.

Technicians should always consult their Parts Department and/or ETKA for the latest information and to verify part numbers based on the vehicle's VIN.

Warranty Information

This repair may be covered under Audi's warranty program. The TSB specifies the following:

• Claim Type: 110 for vehicles covered up to 48 months or 50,000 miles, or G10 for Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles, subject to owner verification.
• Coverage Exclusion: If the vehicle is outside of any applicable warranty, this Technical Service Bulletin serves as informational guidance only, and the repair costs would typically be borne by the owner.
• Service Number: 3511
• Damage Code: 0040
• Labor Operations: Specific labor operations include removing and installing the mechatronic unit (3511 19xx), diagnostic time (GFF, 0150 0060), and charging the battery (2706 8950). Road test times are generally not covered.

All warranty claims must be submitted in strict accordance with the Audi Warranty Policies and Procedures Manual and are subject to review or audit by Audi Warranty.

Owner Action

If your 2021-2024 Audi A3 or TT is exhibiting symptoms such as shuddering while driving, an illuminated gearbox warning lamp, the "Gearbox Malfunction" message, or operating in Limp Home Mode, it is highly recommended to contact an authorized Audi dealership promptly.

Inform the dealership about the specific symptoms you are experiencing and mention Technical Service Bulletin 35 24 50 2070217/2. The dealership will perform the necessary diagnostic steps, including checking the TCM software versions and Mechatronic unit index, to confirm if your vehicle is affected by this TSB. If applicable, they will proceed with the recommended repair to address the underlying hardware issue in the transmission control unit.

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Source: NHTSA ID: 11002221