I own a 1999 A-6 2.8l quattro with 88,000 miles on the odometer. When I bought the car, it had 48,000 miles on it. I didn't think the transmission was shifting smoothly, especially when the car was first started. It wouldn't shift into 5th gear until I had driven a mile or so. Fuel economy was around 20 mpg, which was less than I expected.

So, I had the transmission serviced (oil and filter changed). This improved gas mileage to around 22-23 mpg, which is better, but I want to be around 25 mpg.

I came across a product called "Z-Max" at my local K-Mart. The package came with an oil additive for the enigine, a fuel additive to increase gas mileage and a transmission additive to improve transmission performance. The manufacturor states "For the transmission, Z-Max cleans varnish and deposits and helps repair front seal leaks for smoother shifting. Z-Max treatment is recommended every 6,000 miles or 6 months." My local Audi and VW dealer says Audi doesn't recommend adding anything to the "lifetime" transmission fluid. I can testify to the improved mileage (+ 2 mpg) and the engine runs stronger with less vibration, especially from 0-30 mph.

What do you think? Would you try Z-Max in your A-6? Has anyone else had a poor shifting transmission when the car is warming up? Any suggestions for improvement?

Thanks,

R.Ph. onthe Go