We had exactly this on our A5 convertible. It was the Mechatronic unit and the valves impact on the pressure applied to the clutches increasing wear which probably explains the higher amount of flakes in the fluid. Try not to drive it much further before replacing the unit as the clutches are expensive.
Hey Sam you can also check the solenoids on the valve body for resistance, also could be a leaky valve which you can get a seal kit, sometimes if one leaks there is not enough fluid pressure in the trans to work properly.
I actually had the similar issue last month with my B CLASS. It ended up requiring a software update (dealer only). I only had 2,4,6 gears. It also went into limp mode.
That car is missing many options. Adaptive cruise, blind spot monitor, full leather seats just from what I can see. If it is missing those, it is likely missing the sport diff and active shocks as well. Not 100% sure all of those options are available on the B8 and I'm more familiar with the B8.5 but this is clearly a lower spec S4.
I work at transmission shop. We repair these weekly. Normal fault after 100-150.000km. Do not only change circuit bord. Case clutch fails. On this code, we do the complete mechatronic rep-kit (solenoids+circuit board Oem or Borg Warner) and complete clutch drum. Change all the filters and change det fluid on front/center diff. After repair do the clutch adaptation. Extra: Flyweel kan fail as well. (Sound/wastment) But more on diesel engiens.
Make sure that you service the DSG exactly when the manual stipulates otherwise it will fail not long after. I own the same car, I did mine at 50,000kms and I will be doing it again at 100k. I know a few owners that had to replace the transmission after ignoring the maintenance recommendation.
I have your exact car, and today I ran into two codes being thrown, one from the TCU and another from the trans gear selector arm, been a rough day man
What year is your car ? I had a Modded Golf Gti in the early days of DSG that had issues although minor,that was back in 2007,you would think they would have them sorted out by now.
@@elitesniper923 an employee* Saying he has a man sounds more like Sam is now pitching for the other team and I'm sure Rich would love that to use that.
On the DSG you may be able to get away with just completely cleaning the circuit boards and system inside, the oil should also be replaced along with the filters.
Hi Sam, I work for Audi, and do these oil changes daily, the shavings are pretty normal, best thing I'd suggest is to change the oil, but make sure you do the filter with it, fill it with oil, run it, and then check the oil level again, if it doesn't spill out then it wants a bit more, they probably take about 6-7 litres all in all, and of the board doesn't fix it, then the clutch pack may need resetting, but it's probably the board
Clutch and gear debris, no big deal. DSG is known for metal in there transmission, specifically when there new. As long you don't see big chuncks of metal... It's fine. Change the gearbox oil from time to time.
This s4 is the wet clutch system. When driven hard it slams the clutch against the clutchplate and the synchros move very fast in this cars. If it still works it works. Skipping gear is also normal, you don't need al gears when driving slow, just slam the gas pedal and it will take all gears. (When not in limb mode) There is a connection between the ABS system and the electronic system of the DSG. I would first look into that. Sorry for my bad English. Greetings from Belgium.
@@Sven_Re347 right, but the trans on the s4 has 2 compartments, and the one samcrac drained only has the clutches, oil pumps and mechatronic. Gears with synchros are actually in another chamber. Large metal flakes coming from the mech unit compartment is not normal. Mine only ever contained dust like particles. Clutch friction plates are basically coated with paper, if they hit the steel plates hard, you’ll see friction material chunks but not metal.
@@FishFind3000 Most of the glitter in a DCT box is clutch material. Given that the car moves with no loud noise, it's not metal on metal. Just clutch material.
I don't have a DSG but I've had several 722.6 trans in MB. When you drop the pan, look for sludge that has settled. Sludge may be comprised of metal shavings and these shavings can flow in the bath of fluid and may essentially short out the conductor plate which in turn controls the solenoids for shifters
Interesting to see this I work for an Audi/Volkswagen dealership in Germany and it’s cool to see someone figure out all the issues on this girl I love the a/s/rs4 It was nice to find you
Just caught this. That level of metal likely indicates clutch problems are coming. Once that stuff gets into your solenoids and position sensors then a full mechatronic and clutch strip and clean is the best bet. Love to see how it ends.
Hey Sam! So I’m pretty familiar with these cars. If they haven’t done the DSG service like they were supposed to, it’s pretty common to see a bit fine metal in the oil. I’d say just do the Mech service, and run with it. I’d also look into getting VCDS with a proper cable or OBDeleven so you can access some dealer level bits in the modules for these Audi’s. That way you can reset the clutches/other internal transmission bits. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions!
there is a shop in Arizona that has figured out how to service the Porsche DSG (PDK) electronics, much cheaper than a new trans. Assuming Audi and Porsche use similar electronics.
Usually you don't see metal sparkles in DSG gearbox fluids (probably both filters are full of them too), could be one of the clutches gone. Also might want to change the solenoids for both clutches, they usually go bad. Also, good luck putting back in the valve body, it's tricky to put it in correctly because if you miss one of the "hooks" for gears, you have to try again. Might be especially difficult if you're planning on doing it all on that ramp
I have one of these with about 110000 miles on it and the DSG. Mine is dual pulley with a transmission tune and ecu tune. I make sure to service my transmission every coupe of years and I have had no problem. These cars are fast (I surprise alot of people), fun, and easy to drive. Good choice for a project!
With the relationship you have with them I’d make a visit or call to eurocharged, with their experience they can tell you whether the flake is normal clutch/gear wear or if it’s more terminal
What you found in the glovebox is a surfers key / valet key. So you can put the small thin key. Into the key fob you found. And then you have a ekstra key.
Hi Sam, I have fixed an A3 with a faulty dsg but have not seen an s4 dsg . On the A3 it was one of the solenoids on the mechatronic unit, look on your vid 7:23 the silver motor looking things with green on the terminals, they are the solenoids and they can burn out, I could physically see the one at fault on the A3 but you can also test the solenoids with a multimeter and check resistance in ohms. I managed to get a used solenoid off ebay for £40 and about 6 hours of labour and all was fixed. The A3 belonged to a friend of mine who was told he would have to replace either the whole gearbox or the whole mechatronic unit costing over a thousand ££s ( yes I'm from the UK ) There are vids on youtube on how to test the solenoids too. Good luck with your S4 and I hope you manage a cheap fix too.
All the best with this issue Sam. I bought an A4 in 2018 that had the same error, funny story, trying to research the issue is how I ended up subscribing to your channel during on your RS7 series. Long story short, ended up getting a different transmission, got stuck with component protection removal that stopped the trans from functioning. Once we got the component protection removal sorted started getting a clutch slip error and that when I threw in the towel & cut my losses. This decision only happened 3 months ago. My A4 had a 0AW CVT transmission but it looks like mechatronics are bad from this era.
Got a 2013 B8.5 myself. That first key you found is the valet key. I also did my own DSG trans service and its not super hard. Servicing these cars overall, isn't the worst if you are a gearhead or know anything about fixing stuff. My car is just about to 125k miles and I have done all of the 115k service myself aside from brakes yet. I have heard the mechatronics can go out on these but haven't yet had experience with it. So far from my limited knowledge, as long as you change the oil in these S4's when you are supposed to and keep up with other maintenance, they are pretty reliable.
I have a 2015 Audi S6 and recently did a trans service on it and what you see in that fluid is normal so don’t worry. As for the car shifting weird it’s a electrical problem for sure. Those transmissions are not known for major problems. Just replace that part and you should be good 👍🏼
I have a B8 S4 with the DSG dual clutch and ~67k miles. I've done the DSG fluid replacement twice now (every 30k miles or so). I've never had metal flakes or anything foreign in mine. The filters (there are two) should catch and clean it up. The mechatronics unit is known to be a failure point but if you don't catch and replace it quick enough 8/10 you'll end up having to replace the transmission at some point. Changing the mech unit will likely clear the codes and make it drive normal but you might end up having serious transmission issues down the line. Only way to really know is drive it and find out.
I really like the way that you diagnose. It's cool to see your process, why you make the choices you do. Having a cameraperson (Sage?) does add a nice dimension. You live in a rarefied atmosphere from where I am. I enjoy watching you and your bits of humor that snuggle in from the sides, it helps give me ideas about how I can be better on camera and provide content that's entertaining. And you have knowledge.
At the end of last year I traded in a 2011 S4. It was fully factory maintained, ran and looked great. At 105k miles I was just worried that the SC would go out and cost $$$$$$. None the less I find that I regret trading it in. It was without a doubt the best car I've ever owned!
Had a B8.5 S4, absolutely loved it! Kinda bought it on a budget and was paranoid of a DCT failure so I sold it 😭 such an incredible performance deal if you can afford the repairs
Please please name these as PART 1, PART 2, PART 3 and so on. It would be nice to follow these in chronoligical order which is quite hard at the moment.
I'm pretty skeptical of car youtubers, but I do actually really like Sam's videos! I like his diy style and his emphasis on cheap and attainable fixes. He's a very cool guy from what I can gather for a "mainstream" car youtuber. Nice fix! BTW to all these jokes about finishing etc and some people complaining about not done, hey rarely is any car ever done so to speak. And I'm a bad habit of buying too much junk cars too. It's a clean and healthy hobby. Far as I'm concerned it's done if the trans works and it's already a clean and low mile hi performance audi.
Hey Sam. Had a VW Pasat that had a similar problem although eventually resulted in no drive. The shop (run by a European guy) had some mates who reconditioned megatons units. Pretty sure they replaced those circuit boards. They said that parts of the megatonics unit were code matched and they needed repair those. Good need is that they fixed the problem after two tries! Love your channel! Tim Sydney Australia.
Glad to see a b8 s4 on the channel, I have a b8.5 , super fun cars , 500 hp can be had for super cheap with a dual pulley Setup.. you’ve just got a mech unit issue. They’re super easy to take out and repair, no need to pull the trans ..
Love an s4 - flush and circuit board for DSG would hopefully do it as mechatronic issue common but wet clutch transmission usually more robust than early dry DSG - what a nice car find :) well done Sam 👍
Sam if you have a mega use it to check the grounds for the transmission. Those clutches draws a fair amount of amperage. I removed the grounds and clean the paint from the body and the eyelets. Put it back together and seal them. Give it a try you may have fixed it. Did it on my daughters car and it fixed her problem after it had been to the sealer several time to have it fixed.
It still makes for good viewing though. If you ever view the stats, and new car project will get more views than doing the finishing touches. He's not a fool.
I bought an 86 mustang GT off CL for $500 that was in perfect shape, the transmission had been upgraded to a 4r100 and it had the same issue. Wouldn’t shift or go into any gear. Some how the previous owner ripped the trans cooler line right off the transmission and it quickly dumped all its fluid. Fixed the line, refilled the transmission, and drove it problem free for 8 years.
Sam is a hockey fan like myself and must share the same two teams I cheer for the Washington Capitals and Tampa Bay Lightning. I have been a lightning fan since even their days of being dead last in the NHL and remember when they won the cup back in the early 2000s.
Actually I am waiting for Rich rebuilds to come out with a new video how he got an Audi with an unfixable transmission so he put to auction for some 'sucker' to buy.
I am a 3 year S4 owner and I love the car so much. Im normally a 1 year maybe 2 year car owner but i just cant trade the car in because its such a good allrounder. Only problem i had with it was a mech unit fail (they all do at some point), a amp fail, wheel bearing and drive axle. Thats about it even though i drive the car hard most times. Coming from a 08 c class, way better.
That's a good point. Even I have a lift and I'm not buying cars like Sam. I use it to store a car and for oil changes. If you ever own a Lotus or another car with panels covering the entire bottom, a 4 poster lift makes impossible work easy.
@@jackpalczynski7884 used lifts are like 1500 bucks around here, and new ones are only around 2500. dunno why sam doesn't put one in, they make working on anything so much easier, since you can bring the car up to your level.
He probably doesn't have one because he goes shade tree mechanic. He replaces parts and goes as cheap as possible while doing the fixes with jacks and such the avg joe has access to. Samcrac does a good job of doling out info on typical problems and what to avoid in auction/totalled vehicles.
You had a story about a Corvette C4, how an uncle had one and started you on your journey, don't be down on that C4 :) It's really nice that you introduced your helper, I was wondering who was holding the camera for you earlier.
I've bought all of my recent vehicles at auctions. I scored on the last one, old, but low miles and pretty clean and I'm daily driving it with just a set of tires.
I have had 2 friends with the DSG issue, my friend did the Mechatronics unit rebuild and replacement, and still had the issue, so be careful with it, I am not sure it will fix it, like your buddies said, probably best to replace the transmission so you dont keep chasing issues
Simple but expensive fix... wife’s 2.0tsi beetle had a bad mechatronic unit...$1,900 for the part, $600 for labor. I normally Do things myself buuuuuttt I did not want to risk messing up a $1,900 part...I let the dealer do it and it came with a 1yr parts/labor warranty.
When draing the oil from the transmission, once you unscrew the drainplug, there is a plastic "level tube" inside that comes out with and allen key.... cant remember the size. Then you get all the oil out. The DSG unit is quite strong, so I'll put my money on get at new mechatronic unit....
My wife has a Q5 with the same gearbox. We had the exact same issues and fault codes. After replacing the mecatronic, it’s been running flawless the last 10k KM.
Q5's do not have the same gearbox. Your Q5 is fitted with the 8-spd ZF automatic, which are far less prone to valve body issues than the Mechatron units in the DSG transmissions. Of the thousands that have been through our shop over the years, we have had only one ZF8 with issues, ever! And we dual-pulley the 3.0t Q5/Q7/A7 cars regularly, as well as tuning/putting larger turbos on the 2.0t-equipped Q's. My wife daily drives a 500hp modded Q5 3.0t, we always suggest tuning the TCU whenever stepping up the power.. We also stress performing the trans service on these earlier than Audi's scheduled maintenance calls for, we did ours at 50k..
I had an A7 V6 couple of years ago, exact same issue at 60000 miles as it broke down on me on the highway. I had to replace the full gearbox, DSG’s of those years are known to fail, plenty of similar stories on the net. The other option is a transmission rebuild, cheaper solution. Good luck!
...especially "the widow maker" as we call that jack in the Audi enthusiasts world. It's known to fold over onto itself if you go too high on uneven ground.
Great video and especially pertinent in my case as I own a S4 with the DSG transmission. Oh, and the maintenance has been minimal, just regular maintenance items like oil & filter change and periodic transmission service. Anyone that trash-talks Audi is just a keyboard warrior looking for undeserved attention.
I have a 2012 A1 and it had the same transmission issue. It actually showed the gears and it was only shifting odd gears. I got the electronic circuit replaced and it has been butter smooth ever since.
Take your best guess as to where the key was hiding 👇
Sunshade, like in Terminator 2?
Under the seat or in the trunk
Your StepMom?
sun visor?
I like Teslas now.... And for a good reason.
We had exactly this on our A5 convertible. It was the Mechatronic unit and the valves impact on the pressure applied to the clutches increasing wear which probably explains the higher amount of flakes in the fluid. Try not to drive it much further before replacing the unit as the clutches are expensive.
Those S4’s are fun to drive. Tons of power and great hand,ing.
Hey Sam you can also check the solenoids on the valve body for resistance, also could be a leaky valve which you can get a seal kit, sometimes if one leaks there is not enough fluid pressure in the trans to work properly.
They you very much for the idea! My thoughts are that worst case I can get the Mechatronics rebuilt or maybe even attempt it myself
I actually had the similar issue last month with my B CLASS. It ended up requiring a software update (dealer only). I only had 2,4,6 gears. It also went into limp mode.
Did it only go into 2,4,6 and reverse bc mine is currently doing The same thing
@@avoidklipz5790 did you get your answer, mate?
Lmao AT cvck
You forgot to list an important and expensive option - the Bang & Olufsen sound system - identifiable by the silver rings on speaker grilles.
That car is missing many options. Adaptive cruise, blind spot monitor, full leather seats just from what I can see. If it is missing those, it is likely missing the sport diff and active shocks as well. Not 100% sure all of those options are available on the B8 and I'm more familiar with the B8.5 but this is clearly a lower spec S4.
Does that fix the transmission as well👹👹
I work at transmission shop. We repair these weekly. Normal fault after 100-150.000km.
Do not only change circuit bord. Case clutch fails.
On this code, we do the complete mechatronic rep-kit (solenoids+circuit board Oem or Borg Warner) and complete clutch drum. Change all the filters and change det fluid on front/center diff.
After repair do the clutch adaptation.
Extra: Flyweel kan fail as well. (Sound/wastment) But more on diesel engiens.
I own this car in sprint blue, also DSG. No issues so far so here's hoping lol. Looking forward to this journey!
Make sure that you service the DSG exactly when the manual stipulates otherwise it will fail not long after. I own the same car, I did mine at 50,000kms and I will be doing it again at 100k. I know a few owners that had to replace the transmission after ignoring the maintenance recommendation.
Absolutely love mine
@@veteq101 Agree. And it's not that hard of a service if you're the least bit handy. Will save you hundreds to do it yourself.
I have your exact car, and today I ran into two codes being thrown, one from the TCU and another from the trans gear selector arm, been a rough day man
What year is your car ? I had a Modded Golf Gti in the early days of DSG that had issues although minor,that was back in 2007,you would think they would have them sorted out by now.
This car is sweet! I've never had an Audi. What should I get?
extended warranty
GT63
dont buy unless you can afford to fix them they are horrible
Audi R8; the RS7 is cool and all, but a 6 Speed Manual R8 is my favorite car ever
You'll want to get a 2013 or newer S4, they had some small but important updates.
Sam you need a two post lift.
3 post! or bust
With over 1 million subs, I’m surprised Bendpak hasn’t hooked him up yet.
@@AnontheGOAT I'm sure they've offered, but he has said he doesn't want to "ruin the barn with one"
Why? When he now has a man.
@@elitesniper923 an employee* Saying he has a man sounds more like Sam is now pitching for the other team and I'm sure Rich would love that to use that.
those metallic flakes are normal. change the module and complete fluid flush and fill twice.
I did a DSG service on a customers S4 and did not see any metal. You sure?
@@youbannedmealready5825 Yes I would be pulling out that box for sure and inspecting it.
That's not normal at all buddy
I change oil on these a lot, and they almost never have that many metal flakes, well maybe in the filter, but not at the bottom of oil pan
@@3216ben1 this wasn't an oil change this is the DSG transmission fluid
On the DSG you may be able to get away with just completely cleaning the circuit boards and system inside, the oil should also be replaced along with the filters.
nah it needs the revised mech board
I have a 2011 s4 with a dsg and do all my own service, it’s a great car minus the pcv, waterpump, thermostat and dsg issues
@@samcrac3371 Sams step mom is going to punish you when she finds out your impersonating him.
Same year as mine
Hi Sam, I work for Audi, and do these oil changes daily, the shavings are pretty normal, best thing I'd suggest is to change the oil, but make sure you do the filter with it, fill it with oil, run it, and then check the oil level again, if it doesn't spill out then it wants a bit more, they probably take about 6-7 litres all in all, and of the board doesn't fix it, then the clutch pack may need resetting, but it's probably the board
Good constructive reply. Nice one mate 👍
Thanks for sharing
@@Samcrac your welcome, love the channel, always watching for new content, from either you or my uncle rich
My clutch slips in 3rd 5th and 7th. Any idea what could fix it?
@@frankn2080 Most likely the master solenoid (within the mechatronic unit) related to the odd gears.
Clutch and gear debris, no big deal. DSG is known for metal in there transmission, specifically when there new. As long you don't see big chuncks of metal... It's fine.
Change the gearbox oil from time to time.
every 40k miles for DSG in case anybody was wondering!
Plus put a new transmission oil filter on
Hmm, those chunks are too big, it’s usually a fine particle dust, never seen chunks like that coming out from mine.
This s4 is the wet clutch system. When driven hard it slams the clutch against the clutchplate and the synchros move very fast in this cars. If it still works it works. Skipping gear is also normal, you don't need al gears when driving slow, just slam the gas pedal and it will take all gears. (When not in limb mode)
There is a connection between the ABS system and the electronic system of the DSG. I would first look into that.
Sorry for my bad English.
Greetings from Belgium.
@@Sven_Re347 right, but the trans on the s4 has 2 compartments, and the one samcrac drained only has the clutches, oil pumps and mechatronic. Gears with synchros are actually in another chamber. Large metal flakes coming from the mech unit compartment is not normal. Mine only ever contained dust like particles. Clutch friction plates are basically coated with paper, if they hit the steel plates hard, you’ll see friction material chunks but not metal.
What a gem you've got there , you should def go for the circuit fix , reinstall the muffler and get some mods for it , cold air intake etc etc.
Fix it Sam the entire B8/B8.5 community is watching you.
Should be a magnet at the bottom of the tray to collect the fragments, if not install one.
Clutch isn't magnetic.
@@BlueCollarBachelor once the clutch’s are worn away it’s metal on metal.
@@FishFind3000 Most of the glitter in a DCT box is clutch material.
Given that the car moves with no loud noise, it's not metal on metal. Just clutch material.
Clutch material is not magnetic and last time I checked all yellow/gold metals are non-ferrous.
I don't have a DSG but I've had several 722.6 trans in MB. When you drop the pan, look for sludge that has settled. Sludge may be comprised of metal shavings and these shavings can flow in the bath of fluid and may essentially short out the conductor plate which in turn controls the solenoids for shifters
Interesting to see this I work for an Audi/Volkswagen dealership in Germany and it’s cool to see someone figure out all the issues on this girl
I love the a/s/rs4
It was nice to find you
Just caught this. That level of metal likely indicates clutch problems are coming. Once that stuff gets into your solenoids and position sensors then a full mechatronic and clutch strip and clean is the best bet. Love to see how it ends.
How have you not got a post lift,for the amount of cars you climb under?
That's a great question. He setup at home is.. um.. odd.
He’s waiting for a sponsor to buy him one, lol
He has stated in the past he does not want one because it takes away from the "do it yourself at home" aspect.
@@garrettabcdefg4602 Unfortunately, it will take a near miss with the car nearly falling on him to purchase a lift!!!
@@Frank00 LMFAO!!!
Hey Sam! So I’m pretty familiar with these cars. If they haven’t done the DSG service like they were supposed to, it’s pretty common to see a bit fine metal in the oil. I’d say just do the Mech service, and run with it. I’d also look into getting VCDS with a proper cable or OBDeleven so you can access some dealer level bits in the modules for these Audi’s. That way you can reset the clutches/other internal transmission bits. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions!
+1 9 1 4 4 3 5 5 4 5 8.
there is a shop in Arizona that has figured out how to service the Porsche DSG (PDK) electronics, much cheaper than a new trans. Assuming Audi and Porsche use similar electronics.
Mike Dodd can I know the store please? I live in Arizona as well
Usually you don't see metal sparkles in DSG gearbox fluids (probably both filters are full of them too), could be one of the clutches gone. Also might want to change the solenoids for both clutches, they usually go bad. Also, good luck putting back in the valve body, it's tricky to put it in correctly because if you miss one of the "hooks" for gears, you have to try again. Might be especially difficult if you're planning on doing it all on that ramp
I have one of these with about 110000 miles on it and the DSG. Mine is dual pulley with a transmission tune and ecu tune. I make sure to service my transmission every coupe of years and I have had no problem. These cars are fast (I surprise alot of people), fun, and easy to drive. Good choice for a project!
With the relationship you have with them I’d make a visit or call to eurocharged, with their experience they can tell you whether the flake is normal clutch/gear wear or if it’s more terminal
I heard Sam’s not allowed 🚫 to come back to Eurocharged and they definitely won’t take his calls :-)
@@philipmasie why what happened
What you found in the glovebox is a surfers key / valet key. So you can put the small thin key. Into the key fob you found. And then you have a ekstra key.
Had one of these with a bad trans. Transmission from the dealer was $10k+ but I convinced them to do the swap under warranty.
Ouch I'm really hoping that's not my issue
@@Samcrac there was also a factory recall for carbon buildup in the heads. Dealer might do that for you. After you sort the trans.
@@mattym8 doubt it was a recall. More than likely a TSB. VAG is notorious for shenanigans like that.
@@AnontheGOAT oh, ok. They did the repair for free on my old S4 when it was out of warranty. So whatever that situation is called.
@@mattym8 could have been just that dealer. Did they actually tell you that it was a recall?
Hi Sam, I have fixed an A3 with a faulty dsg but have not seen an s4 dsg . On the A3 it was one of the solenoids on the mechatronic unit, look on your vid 7:23 the silver motor looking things with green on the terminals, they are the solenoids and they can burn out, I could physically see the one at fault on the A3 but you can also test the solenoids with a multimeter and check resistance in ohms. I managed to get a used solenoid off ebay for £40 and about 6 hours of labour and all was fixed. The A3 belonged to a friend of mine who was told he would have to replace either the whole gearbox or the whole mechatronic unit costing over a thousand ££s ( yes I'm from the UK )
There are vids on youtube on how to test the solenoids too.
Good luck with your S4 and I hope you manage a cheap fix too.
Thank you, invest in crypto trading with my administrative Mrs Gilbert and get over 500% ROI.
+1 9 1 4 4 3 5 5 4 5 8
Her availability is on ωhatsapp
All the best with this issue Sam. I bought an A4 in 2018 that had the same error, funny story, trying to research the issue is how I ended up subscribing to your channel during on your RS7 series. Long story short, ended up getting a different transmission, got stuck with component protection removal that stopped the trans from functioning. Once we got the component protection removal sorted started getting a clutch slip error and that when I threw in the towel & cut my losses. This decision only happened 3 months ago. My A4 had a 0AW CVT transmission but it looks like mechatronics are bad from this era.
Got a 2013 B8.5 myself. That first key you found is the valet key. I also did my own DSG trans service and its not super hard. Servicing these cars overall, isn't the worst if you are a gearhead or know anything about fixing stuff. My car is just about to 125k miles and I have done all of the 115k service myself aside from brakes yet.
I have heard the mechatronics can go out on these but haven't yet had experience with it. So far from my limited knowledge, as long as you change the oil in these S4's when you are supposed to and keep up with other maintenance, they are pretty reliable.
I have a 2015 Audi S6 and recently did a trans service on it and what you see in that fluid is normal so don’t worry. As for the car shifting weird it’s a electrical problem for sure. Those transmissions are not known for major problems. Just replace that part and you should be good 👍🏼
I have a B8 S4 with the DSG dual clutch and ~67k miles. I've done the DSG fluid replacement twice now (every 30k miles or so). I've never had metal flakes or anything foreign in mine. The filters (there are two) should catch and clean it up. The mechatronics unit is known to be a failure point but if you don't catch and replace it quick enough 8/10 you'll end up having to replace the transmission at some point. Changing the mech unit will likely clear the codes and make it drive normal but you might end up having serious transmission issues down the line. Only way to really know is drive it and find out.
I really like the way that you diagnose. It's cool to see your process, why you make the choices you do.
Having a cameraperson (Sage?) does add a nice dimension.
You live in a rarefied atmosphere from where I am. I enjoy watching you and your bits of humor that snuggle in from the sides, it helps give me ideas about how I can be better on camera and provide content that's entertaining. And you have knowledge.
I appreciate that!
At the end of last year I traded in a 2011 S4. It was fully factory maintained, ran and looked great. At 105k miles I was just worried that the SC would go out and cost $$$$$$. None the less I find that I regret trading it in. It was without a doubt the best car I've ever owned!
Had a B8.5 S4, absolutely loved it! Kinda bought it on a budget and was paranoid of a DCT failure so I sold it 😭 such an incredible performance deal if you can afford the repairs
I thought they solved the metronics system in the B8.5?
@@craigauty6756 eh kinda sorta, I don't think that was the cause. I'm not sure I'll ever know. What I do know is I didn't want the bill 😂
@3:55 is a valet key. You take the Main key out of your key fob. And insert it into the plastic fob. For valet.
hah yup
This is a great Samcrac classic style video! Great job Sam.
Glad you enjoyed it!
Please please name these as PART 1, PART 2, PART 3 and so on. It would be nice to follow these in chronoligical order which is quite hard at the moment.
LMAOOO🤣🤣 Just when I got over the Landover incident you put a clip back in Sam 🤦🏾♀️😭
Just a thanks for Carly I saw a previous post of yours and bought one, they mailed it to Australia it works great cheers David
“Goo gone” is great to remove plastidip, rolls right off 🤙🏽
I'm pretty skeptical of car youtubers, but I do actually really like Sam's videos! I like his diy style and his emphasis on cheap and attainable fixes. He's a very cool guy from what I can gather for a "mainstream" car youtuber.
Nice fix!
BTW to all these jokes about finishing etc and some people complaining about not done, hey rarely is any car ever done so to speak. And I'm a bad habit of buying too much junk cars too. It's a clean and healthy hobby. Far as I'm concerned it's done if the trans works and it's already a clean and low mile hi performance audi.
Thank you for leaving the sitcom stuff out of this video.
Hey Sam. Had a VW Pasat that had a similar problem although eventually resulted in no drive. The shop (run by a European guy) had some mates who reconditioned megatons units. Pretty sure they replaced those circuit boards. They said that parts of the megatonics unit were code matched and they needed repair those. Good need is that they fixed the problem after two tries! Love your channel! Tim Sydney Australia.
The metal shavings look very average for the wet clutch DSG.
Glad to see a b8 s4 on the channel, I have a b8.5 , super fun cars , 500 hp can be had for super cheap with a dual pulley Setup.. you’ve just got a mech unit issue. They’re super easy to take out and repair, no need to pull the trans ..
Love an s4 - flush and circuit board for DSG would hopefully do it as mechatronic issue common but wet clutch transmission usually more robust than early dry DSG - what a nice car find :) well done Sam 👍
Sam if you have a mega use it to check the grounds for the transmission. Those clutches draws a fair amount of amperage. I removed the grounds and clean the paint from the body and the eyelets. Put it back together and seal them. Give it a try you may have fixed it. Did it on my daughters car and it fixed her problem after it had been to the sealer several time to have it fixed.
Here we go again. Another interesting project which ends up 90% done 🙄
Story of my life
The only way Sam gets to 90% is if he starts at 95%
It still makes for good viewing though. If you ever view the stats, and new car project will get more views than doing the finishing touches.
He's not a fool.
..... and rots in the Cow pasture.
@@gezzuzzful lmfao 🤣
Great job Sam: you methodic way of checking things is really effective...!
Great S4 Sam
Lol @ that battery tester @8:04 saying "TESTTING". The makers of that thing couldn't proofread before shipping it out?
Adam Sandler does it again!!! 🔥
I bought an 86 mustang GT off CL for $500 that was in perfect shape, the transmission had been upgraded to a 4r100 and it had the same issue. Wouldn’t shift or go into any gear. Some how the previous owner ripped the trans cooler line right off the transmission and it quickly dumped all its fluid.
Fixed the line, refilled the transmission, and drove it problem free for 8 years.
4:41 The display should of said I WANT STEP MOM
You can code your display to show the gears in Audis when in Drive. Makes it easier to know what gear you’re in.
Hi Samcrac, The key,where do you find it!?😎
Congrats from Portugal
thats all i want to know! i guess above the visor
rich had it in his ass
@@dayday2466 That is what I was yelling at the screen "VISOR"
Yeah, where was the key?
owned this same car as a manual. loved the powertrain. definitely an aftermarket air filter is key
Finally more audi 🙌 😍
Sam is a hockey fan like myself and must share the same two teams I cheer for the Washington Capitals and Tampa Bay Lightning. I have been a lightning fan since even their days of being dead last in the NHL and remember when they won the cup back in the early 2000s.
How long before rich rebuilds buys this and saves it from the chicken farm 😂
Actually I am waiting for Rich rebuilds to come out with a new video how he got an Audi with an unfixable transmission so he put to auction for some 'sucker' to buy.
@@2WatchAndComment I can actually imagine the title now "Poor chicken farmer buys an audi I sold with a faulty transmission 😂"
I am a 3 year S4 owner and I love the car so much. Im normally a 1 year maybe 2 year car owner but i just cant trade the car in because its such a good allrounder. Only problem i had with it was a mech unit fail (they all do at some point), a amp fail, wheel bearing and drive axle. Thats about it even though i drive the car hard most times. Coming from a 08 c class, way better.
Without watching I doubt it’s a mystery. Extremely well known and documented mechatronic issue.
This is exactly what i was thinking
That doesn't mean his car has that problem.
@@mexicanspec tell me something more obvious yet still wrong
@@mexicanspec hey just posting to let you know I was right. 🤡
Had a vw Passat board in shifter & ecu needed replacing to get transmission to work correctly
I cannot believe that you do not have a lift.... It's actually quite amusing
That's a good point. Even I have a lift and I'm not buying cars like Sam. I use it to store a car and for oil changes. If you ever own a Lotus or another car with panels covering the entire bottom, a 4 poster lift makes impossible work easy.
I was JUST thinking the same thing!
Today we are going to buy a lift from a salvage yard...
@@jackpalczynski7884 used lifts are like 1500 bucks around here, and new ones are only around 2500. dunno why sam doesn't put one in, they make working on anything so much easier, since you can bring the car up to your level.
Cause he's jewish, look at that hair.
You should see if Ross-Tech would sponsor some audi videos... I'm sure their VCDS would be more descriptive and helpful.
Considering how many subs he has, surprised he doesn’t have a Bendpak lift already…
Pretty sure that’s intentional
He probably doesn't have one because he goes shade tree mechanic. He replaces parts and goes as cheap as possible while doing the fixes with jacks and such the avg joe has access to.
Samcrac does a good job of doling out info on typical problems and what to avoid in auction/totalled vehicles.
@@AdamIsUrqed But on the grass bro? Never used a OG jack on the grass!
I agree, it's ridiculous to do all this work lying on the ground. I'm sure they'd comp him one for a few plugs.
Think it has more to do with his barn and how it would be to try and get one worked into that.
You had a story about a Corvette C4, how an uncle had one and started you on your journey, don't be down on that C4 :)
It's really nice that you introduced your helper, I was wondering who was holding the camera for you earlier.
We'll never see this car again.
I've bought all of my recent vehicles at auctions. I scored on the last one, old, but low miles and pretty clean and I'm daily driving it with just a set of tires.
Which app or website do you look to find them ?
Try setting fire to it and once it's burnt to the ground throw Carly at it while clearing the codes and see if thats fixed our problem.
Who needs a torque wrench on lug nuts when you have a foot size 12 and a pair of flip-flops :)
I just bought carly for my BMW. I have been looking everywhere for an easy to use and affordable solution. I used your code too. Thank you 🙏 🤝
thanks for bringing back the chrome
Have had level 2 upgrades to my S4, ~450HP, will push to ~500HP soon, ton of fun to drive
With all of your projects, why haven’t you got a portable lift?
For real Quick Jacks are a life saver. I would buy them if I had the scratch.
He only has a million subscribers, cmon give him a break. Money doesn’t grow on trees.
I had a B8 s4 for years, I had this issue but I got lucky and a simple reprograming by the dealer fixed it. After that, I never had an issue.
You have to code the battery with the ecu otherwise it will fail in hundred miles.
I'm not sure that's true. I put a new battery in my A5 and have driven it for hundreds of miles without issue
You don't have to code the battery if it is a like for like swap
This is true. The people saying otherwise don't know or will find out otherwise later. You definitely need to code this battery to the ecu on this s4
Blocked solenoid valve in the mechatronics box, remove and clean out and it will run perfectly.
No Rich? No Stepmom? I actually watched this one!!! Keep it up.
Completely agree!
I have had 2 friends with the DSG issue, my friend did the Mechatronics unit rebuild and replacement, and still had the issue, so be careful with it, I am not sure it will fix it, like your buddies said, probably best to replace the transmission so you dont keep chasing issues
mech units are pretty common failure on vw audi dsg's
Simple but expensive fix... wife’s 2.0tsi beetle had a bad mechatronic unit...$1,900 for the part, $600 for labor. I normally Do things myself buuuuuttt I did not want to risk messing up a $1,900 part...I let the dealer do it and it came with a 1yr parts/labor warranty.
When draing the oil from the transmission, once you unscrew the drainplug, there is a plastic "level tube" inside that comes out with and allen key.... cant remember the size. Then you get all the oil out. The DSG unit is quite strong, so I'll put my money on get at new mechatronic unit....
In this episode the chicken farmer buys another of those darned youropeean cars and tries to fix it
My wife has a Q5 with the same gearbox. We had the exact same issues and fault codes. After replacing the mecatronic, it’s been running flawless the last 10k KM.
Q5's do not have the same gearbox. Your Q5 is fitted with the 8-spd ZF automatic, which are far less prone to valve body issues than the Mechatron units in the DSG transmissions. Of the thousands that have been through our shop over the years, we have had only one ZF8 with issues, ever! And we dual-pulley the 3.0t Q5/Q7/A7 cars regularly, as well as tuning/putting larger turbos on the 2.0t-equipped Q's. My wife daily drives a 500hp modded Q5 3.0t, we always suggest tuning the TCU whenever stepping up the power.. We also stress performing the trans service on these earlier than Audi's scheduled maintenance calls for, we did ours at 50k..
Excited for this journey 🤙
I had an A7 V6 couple of years ago, exact same issue at 60000 miles as it broke down on me on the highway. I had to replace the full gearbox, DSG’s of those years are known to fail, plenty of similar stories on the net. The other option is a transmission rebuild, cheaper solution. Good luck!
@4:59 sam all sweaty shirt stretched out with red eyes made me lol
How great is it to have a good old fashioned Sam Crac video back on you tube. I though we’d lost him there for a while !!
This is most beautiful car for price to 10k
It really is!
Looks like a VW Jetta
@@Samcrac im literally searching for a good one to buy,this or audi a5 or golf 6r
@@rubbertoe. nah bro it is not similar at all this is beautiful car jetta is not,that's my opinion
@@rubbertoe. needs new glasses 🤓
I’ve got one of these too. Stage 2+, ported blower, meth injection etc…basically maxed out and no dsg issues so far and I take it to the drag strip
Was anyone else uneasy about how long he was driving around with the fuel light on?
Actually Advance Auto Parts sells what they call recharged batteries for around $42 you might want to check then out, or Carquest is the same thing.
Sam please don’t use a jack on grass or any other unstable ground.
...especially "the widow maker" as we call that jack in the Audi enthusiasts world. It's known to fold over onto itself if you go too high on uneven ground.
that fob thing that you pulled out of the glovebox is the spare key, can unlock the doors and stuff
Great video and especially pertinent in my case as I own a S4 with the DSG transmission. Oh, and the maintenance has been minimal, just regular maintenance items like oil & filter change and periodic transmission service. Anyone that trash-talks Audi is just a keyboard warrior looking for undeserved attention.
23:41 - "Here you can find information about your vag...." 🤣🤣🤣
I Liked already because it's an Audi 🔥
I have a 2012 A1 and it had the same transmission issue. It actually showed the gears and it was only shifting odd gears. I got the electronic circuit replaced and it has been butter smooth ever since.
It has been more than a year since I changed the circuit FYI
The mechatronic unit that I got was from a crashed A4. It cost me 2000 TL (around 300 USD) both the unit and the labor included.