The VW Multitronic gearbox is one of the most advanced transmission systems on the market today. It was originally designed by Volkswagen to enhance the smoothness and efficiency of driving. However, there is no such thing as a perfect machine, hence there have been some complaints about the VW Multitronic gearbox which tend to be more severe on vehicles with a lot of mileage. In this article we will explain the most common problems with the VW Multitronic gearbox and their solutions.

Common Problems with the VW Multitronic Gearbox

 It is in no doubt that the VW Multitronic gearbox works well, but there are several problems in some cases. These problems mostly occur on old or not properly cared for vehicles.

The most common issues I am going to name below.

1. Gearbox Slipping

 The most frequent complaint is slipping, which occurs when the vehicle feels like it is in the process of engaging a gear or struggling to maintain speed. The car will feel unpredictable and ‘dead’ on the road, losing power for a fraction of a second before engaging for about a minute or quickly accelerating to another gear, then going into the same motion over again.

 Solution: Slipping is most frequently caused by low or dirty transmission fluid. Proper fluid levels should be checked and maintained and regularly replaced.If the problem continues, it could be a sign of significant wear within the gear boxes which will require a mechanic to inspect.

2. Transmission Overheating

 Another issue complained of by those driving the VW Multitronic gearbox is overheating. The transmission can become very hot to the touch with prolonged use, particularly in warmer climates, enduring extended stop-start driving or with a vehicle that is carrying heavy loads. If overheating is not rectified immediately, it can lead to damage to the internals of the gearbox.

 Answer: To make sure the system doesn’t overheat, you have to have the transmission fluid at the right level and running freely – it can help to have an external transmission cooler to help the gearbox stay at a safe temperature most of the time. At some point, if it does overheat repetitively, the system needs to be checked over by a technician.

3. Control Unit Failure

 At the heart of the VW Multitronic gearbox is an electronic control unit (ECU) running countless lines of code, which tells the continuously variable transmission (CVT) how to behave; sometimes, the control unit begins behaving strangely – akin to a psychotic episode – or they’ll stop working completely. Warning lights appear on the to engage at all, at all.

 Answer: If the ECU is identified as being the cause, fault diagnosis will be carried out with an appropriate tool. Software update or reprogramming is the most likely solution. In case the control unit has failed completely, then it must by replaced with a new component.

4. Chain or Belt Wear

 The chain-driven adjustment system in the VW Multitronic gearbox stretches and wears eventually, so the transmission cannot maintain a ratio. 

 Answer: The most effective solution to this issue is to replace the worn chain or belt. Routine maintenance of gears also includes inspecting for chain wear, which helps to diagnose this issue early, avoiding damage to the gearbox. 

How to Address VW Multitronic Gearbox Problems

 With problems relating to the VW Multitronic gearbox, it is best to diagnose the fault as early as possible, allowing for early intervention, and avoiding or minimising damage to important gearbox components and the engine. Here we provide an overview of what you could do if your Multitronic transmission is giving you problems.

1. Regular Servicing

 It is treated by showing the proper attitude, and one way of doing that is to service the gearbox on time, to follow the service plan of the manufacturer.When provided with a service plan, which usually include indications of the proper time periods for servicing, a technician can check the level of wear of the components, listen to the mode of operation of the system, update the software, and it is assumed that "they will take care of everything".

2. Check Transmission Fluid

 The VW Multitronic gearbox relies on transmission fluid to make it work properly. By keeping the gearbox fluid clean and at the correct level, there are many problems your standard Multitronic can avoid. Slipping? Leakage? Awkward noises? It may very well be your fluid. Check it out. 

3. Address Problems Early

 If you were slipping, overheating or have warning lights, get yourself fixed – but quite often these warning signs are ones you can spot up front and don’t need a warning light. Just look for slipping or bucking or overheating. It’s cheaper to nip small problems in the bud than to leave them and have bigger, more expensive problems later. If you’re not an expert, see a qualified technician.

Conclusion

 Although this VW Multitronic gearbox boasts a lot of advantages like a seamless acceleration and better mileage at the same time, it is not untouchable from problems. Failures like slipping, overheating, unaccounted or unaddressed Control Unit faults are not ‘technically unfamiliar’ either when it comes to vehicles that have not been as regularly serviced. Be remind of the benefits and always stay vigilant to avoid the cost of expensive repairs.