FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/Volkswagen/Tiguan/Second Generation (2018-present)/my Volkswagen Tiguan's transmission slips when shifting gears what's wrong

my Volkswagen Tiguan's transmission slips when shifting gears what's wrong

Volkswagen Tiguan Second Generation (2018-present)

Severity: highDifficulty: medium2-4 hours
3 min read
498 words

⚠️ Safety Warning

This issue requires immediate attention. If you are not experienced with automotive repairs, consult a professional mechanic. Working on critical systems can be dangerous.

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix transmission slipping issues in Volkswagen Tiguan. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

Component
Transmission
Repair Time
2-4 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Allow the vehicle to cool before working on the transmission to avoid burns from hot fluid.
  • ⚠Always use gloves and safety glasses when handling transmission fluids.

Symptoms

  • •Check engine light illuminated
  • •Slipping or delayed engagement when shifting gears
  • •Unusual noises (grinding or whining) during shifting
  • •Fluid leaks under the vehicle
  • •Poor acceleration or loss of power
  • •Increased engine RPM without corresponding vehicle speed increase

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan for error codes using an OBD-II scanner to identify any transmission-related faults.
  2. 2Check the transmission fluid level and condition; look for signs of contamination or burning.
  3. 3Inspect the transmission fluid lines for leaks or damage.
  4. 4Verify the operation of the transmission control module (TCM) for proper functionality.
  5. 5Test the throttle position sensor (TPS) to ensure it is providing accurate readings.
  6. 6Conduct a road test to replicate the slipping condition and observe performance.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather tools and parts required for the repair.
  • Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface, and engage the parking brake.
  • Disconnect the battery to prevent electrical issues during repair.

2. Inspect and Replace Transmission Fluid

  • Sub-steps:
    • Locate the transmission dipstick or fill tube.
    • Remove the dipstick and wipe it clean; insert it back to check the fluid level.
    • If fluid is low or burned, drain the transmission fluid using a fluid extractor or drain plug.
    • Replace with manufacturer-recommended transmission fluid (check owner's manual for specifications).
    • Reinstall the dipstick, ensuring it is secured properly.

3. Inspect and Replace Transmission Filter (if applicable)

  • Sub-steps:
    • Remove the transmission pan using a socket set, taking care to drain any remaining fluid.
    • Remove the old filter and inspect for debris or damage.
    • Install the new filter, ensuring it is seated properly.
    • Clean the transmission pan and the gasket surface before reinstallation.

4. Check and Repair Transmission Control Module (if necessary)

  • Sub-steps:
    • Use a multimeter to test the TCM for proper voltage and signal output.
    • If faulty, disconnect the wiring harness and unbolt the TCM from its mount.
    • Replace it with a new unit, ensuring all connections are secure.

5. Reassemble and Refill

  • Sub-steps:
    • Reinstall the transmission pan with a new gasket and torque bolts to manufacturer specifications.
    • Reconnect the battery and clear any stored error codes using the OBD-II scanner.
    • Start the vehicle and allow it to warm up; check the transmission fluid level again.

Tools Required:

  • OBD-II scanner
  • Fluid extractor or socket set
  • Multimeter
  • Torque wrench
  • Screwdrivers
  • Transmission filter kit (if needed)

Parts Required:

  • Transmission fluid (manufacturer-specific)
  • Transmission filter (if applicable)
  • Transmission pan gasket

Estimated Repair Time: 2-4 hours

Safety Warnings:

  • Allow the vehicle to cool before working on the transmission to avoid burns from hot fluid.
  • Always use gloves and safety glasses when handling transmission fluids.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

  • Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
  • Check for any error codes or warning lights
  • Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

  • •Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
  • •Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
  • •Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
  • •Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

  • OBD-II scanner
  • Fluid extractor or socket set
  • Multimeter
  • Torque wrench
  • Screwdrivers
  • Transmission filter kit (if needed)

Parts Required

  • Transmission fluid (manufacturer-specific)
  • Transmission filter (if applicable)
  • Transmission pan gasket

Additional Information

Component

Transmission

Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

high

Tools

6 items

Parts

3 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. my Volkswagen Tiguan has a rough idle when stopped at a red light, what's wrong?

    Learn how to diagnose and fix rough idle issues in Volkswagen Tiguan. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Engine stalling at idle
    • +{count} more
  2. my Volkswagen Tiguan has a hard start when cold

    Learn how to diagnose and fix hard start issues in Volkswagen Tiguan. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Engine cranks but does not start immediately
    • •Rough idle after starting
    • +{count} more
  3. why does my Volkswagen Tiguan lose power steering intermittently

    Learn how to diagnose and fix intermittent power steering loss in Volkswagen Tiguan. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair in...

    Component:Steering
    Symptoms
    • •Intermittent loss of power steering assistance
    • •Steering feels heavy or difficult to turn
    • +{count} more
  4. how to determine if my Volkswagen Tiguan needs a new timing belt

    Learn how to determine if your Volkswagen Tiguan needs a new timing belt. Step-by-step diagnostic and replacement instructions included.

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Engine misfires or runs rough
    • +{count} more
  5. why is my Volkswagen Tiguan making a whistling noise while driving

    Learn how to diagnose and fix a whistling noise in your Volkswagen Tiguan. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Whistling noise increases with vehicle speed
    • •Noise is more pronounced during acceleration
    • +{count} more
  6. why is my Volkswagen Tiguan using so much oil all of a sudden

    Discover how to diagnose and fix excessive oil consumption in your Volkswagen Tiguan. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair i...

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Oil warning light illuminated on the dashboard
    • •Excessive exhaust smoke (blue or gray)
    • +{count} more

Share this solution

Comments

Sign in to share your thoughts

Sign In

No comments yet

Be the first to share your thoughts

Back to Generation