View Full Version : 4.2 6-speed transmission question


pchansen
11-07-2011, 08:18 AM
My '07 has been trouble free for a few months now ( I know- wonders may never cease!) and am starting to become annoyed with the shifting characteristics of the tranny. It's fine for almost every scenario except for starting from a dead stop. Pulling away from a stop light, I can run through the first three gears before I'm even though the intersection. It lends it's self to a herky-jerky start head snapping start no matter how gently I apply the throttle. I'm also wondering (noticing) that there might be a delay in the application of throttle by the throttle-by-wire system. Not sure if the two problems are one in the same or just contributing to a very annoying situation.
As you all probably know, I tow rather extensively with the Q and have probably amassed about 2000 towing miles in the last year or so. The Q has a total of 75000 miles on it as well. I'm wondering if a transmission fluid change wouldn't be in order. I'm also wondering if that throttle-by-wire adaptor thingy (can't think of it's name right now) wouldn't help as well. I'm almost sure nothing is "wrong" with the transmission as it hasn't thrown any codes that I'm aware of.
Anyone have any comments or suggestions?
I just wish there was a way to program the transmission so it would start out in second gear unless you're in Sport or Tow mode.

Jusforfun
11-07-2011, 05:36 PM
A few 07 had transmission control module problems. IIRC the heat cracks them. As you tow it may be worth checking it out, jus thinkin.

chickdr
11-08-2011, 07:06 AM
I have always found the 4.2 6-sp combo to be rough shifting. My 2004 Touareg always shifted roughly(like you describe) and the Q7 4.2 I test drove had the same issue. Our 3.6 for some reason is much smoother. No idea why this would be the case as it is the same tranny on both cars.

pchansen
11-08-2011, 04:12 PM
Well on one hand, it's comforting to know that other folks have noticed the same issues. Of course I still don't like the shifting characteristics. The next time the car is in for service, I'll have the transmission control module inspected. Still wondering if the Sprint Booster at $300 would help or just make things worse. Thanks for your responses, gentlemen.
Paul