If you have a look here, you can see what the members on here have experienced.

Failing DSG gearbox Mechatronic units | Page 4 | Volkswagen Tiguan MK2 Only Forum (tiguanforums.co.uk)

 

Excellent letter. Please keep us posted.

 

I had my car returned only last Friday ( 26/07/24 ) after being at my local dealers for 26 days with Mechatronic failure . I lost gears 1,3,5, and 7 . Only appeared to happen after a 50/60 mile drives as it was fine if i left it overnight and only did short journeys . Car is a 2019 230 4Motion with 26k on it ....Thank god for All in cover as it cost me nothing .

In fairness to the dealer , they kept me upto date on a regular basis of where they were with obtaining the parts and an expected time scale ....The courtesy car was also free for the entire time scale of repair , but i wouldn't have wanted to spend much longer in a 1.0 litre Tiago .

 

There are millions of DSG vehicles, hundreds of members on here, maybe a few dozen complaints. I'm on my third DSG car never had a problem with any of them. Yes if it's you it's terrible but it's not an epidemic.
I'm not aware of any mechatronic recall in any country.

 

Given the feedback from the independent VW specialists and the recalls in other countries; it does sound as if VW UK are trying to deny/hide the problem though.

 

What recalls? There are members on here from several countries who have had problems, no one has mentioned a recall. There's reports from Australia, US and several European countries.

 

What recalls? ..

OP mentions the recalls in his post above.

 

Agreed Tricky.
There were recalls on the DQ200 (2009 to 2015) in Aus and NZ but nothing to do with the Tig

 

Sorry no help from me but excellent letter, please keep us updated should you get a response. had my 2.0 Diesel R line DSG now just over 3 years, now done 50K with no issues but it does sow a seed of doubt and anxiety in me. I know we only here of problems on here but would not want this issue, almost as bad a the sunroof leaks !!

 

Only recalls in the UK was for the DQ200 boxes and that was done to synthetic oil

Although my brother in laws 2016 S3 DSG box was under a recall, but not for oil

 

I think that the point the OP is making is that VW UK are denying / hiding the issue when other countries have acknowledged it and have issued recalls to fix it.

 

Not for the DSGs fitted to the Tiguan
No hiding going on
Unless you've got evidence to the contrary?

 

The OP's 2.0 TDi will have the DQ350 (380?) which is a wet clutch and totally different to the DQ200. And the issue with the 200 was early in it's life, not the same box being used today, e.g. In my T-Cross 1.0.

It's like saying the 'kangaroo' issue applies to all VW engines, just because it was recognised as an issue with the original 1.5 engines.

 

How can "I think the point that the OP was making" be me restating the point several times ?.

Any update OP?

 

Actually for me, this poses another question. We know there is another thread where there's a poll with the number of users that have had issues with their DSG boxes, but I wonder out of all the different types of boxes fitted (DQ200, DQ250, DQ500, DQ381 etc.) which ones are more problematic than others ?

 

We’ve had those with the 150ps and 230ps with issues, there’s two different gearboxes to start with and different years. Is it not the same mechatronics for all of them with just a different map for the different box? I’m truly guessing here as my knowledge of the mechanics of the car is scant.

 

Part numbers all different, so maybe some embedded firmware (6sp v 7sp etc), but rebuild costs here are the same

Volkswagen TIGUAN ECU (Transmission)

Volkswagen TIGUAN ECU (Transmission)

www.ecutesting.com

 

Exactly the same problem for me - 2019 Tiguan 2.0 R Line Tech. I left her in today with VW who diagnosed P173500, and offered the solution as ‘Replace Gearbox Control Unit” (£1548) which I suppose is better than replacing the entire Mechatronics unit. Like the OP, I’m pretty ticked off at VW. Indeed the service agent at my main dealership, (who in fairness, was very good indeed) said it is a common issue and they do this ‘all the time’ . I’ve made enquiries and heard the same from 2 different independent transmission specialists near me.

I’m assuming the OP hasn’t heard back from VW and I remember reading somewhere in this Forum that someone had used the small claims procedure on VW and won. I’m currently composing a letter to VW citing the Consumer Rights Act 2015 which I’ll post later if anyone is interested. Any thoughts on this?

 

the solution as ‘Replace Gearbox Control Unit” (£1548) which I suppose is better than replacing the entire Mechatronics unit.

That is the mechatronics. There's the physical gearbox, with 2 clutches, and the mechatronics control unit, a combination of electronics and solenoids that control the gear selection and the clutch activity.

 

Just had the mechatronic replaced on my 2019 TSI 230 R-Line Tech at 37k miles. Failed on long trip with even gears only.

Replaced under extended All-In warranty by main dealer.

Total cost on job sheet to VW £1325

Included new mechatronic unit for wet clutch DSG at £461 ex VAT and 2.5 hours labour charge plus other parts.

Glad I took out the All-In package with the extended warranty. If your car is under 6 years old I would recommend doing this.

 

Our Tiguan failed with this error last Friday.

We were around 80 miles from home, great timing. Thankfully we have the AA, the technician came out and diagnosed the mechatronic fault and the Tig was recovered back to our home address.

The error code is "P173500 - position sensor clutch 1 electrical fault".

2017 2.0L TSI R-Line
55k miles
DSG Oil service carried out by dealership in April 2024

Interestingly the AA tech informed us that VW have released an internal TPI (Technical Product Information) on this fault - "TPI 2058102/27". This was released on the 24th June 2024.

Is a TPI like a formal record of a defect / recall? If so, are VW now acknowledging that this is a widespread problem?

I cant find much information on VW TPI's.... can anyone help?

 

 

Someone on the forum who has ERWIN may be able to find out if it’s related to mechatronics

 

I've been having a very detailed and in depth conversation with Chat GPT regarding my problem and likely solutions, including, as I mentioned, the potential for the use of the Consumer Rights Act 2015. I prompted it with your new info regarding the TPI and this is what it gave back.

"The mention of TPI 2058102/27, released by VW on June 24, 2024, is significant and indicates that Volkswagen has recognised this specific issue internally. TPIs (Technical Product Information) documents are used by manufacturers like VW to provide detailed information on known issues, diagnostic procedures, and recommended fixes to their service networks.
What the TPI Likely Covers:

1. Issue Recognition:
   • The TPI likely acknowledges that there is a recurring issue with certain VW models, such as your Tiguan, regarding the gearbox or DSG transmission, which aligns with the fault code P173500 you mentioned earlier.
2. Detailed Diagnostics:
   • TPIs typically include specific instructions for diagnosing the problem accurately. This could involve detailed steps for technicians to follow to confirm the fault, including checks on the TCU, sensors, wiring, and possibly software updates.
3. Recommended Repair:
   • The TPI would detail the recommended course of action. Since your technician suggested replacing the gearbox control unit, it is possible that the TPI advises this as the appropriate fix. However, it might also include additional steps such as reprogramming the new control unit, updating the software, or performing checks on related components to ensure the problem is fully resolved.
4. Potential Warranty or Goodwill Coverage:
   • TPIs sometimes indicate whether the issue might be covered under warranty, even if the vehicle is slightly out of warranty. This could be especially relevant if the TPI was issued after the issue became widespread, and VW might offer some level of goodwill assistance for repairs.
5. Software Updates:
   • If the issue has a software component, the TPI may recommend or require a software update as part of the repair process. This update could address underlying issues in the TCU that are causing the fault.

Next Steps for You:

1. Contact VW Service Center:
   • With this TPI number in hand, contact your VW dealership or service centre. Ask them to review TPI 2058102/27 and provide details on how it applies to your vehicle.
2. Request Detailed Information:
   • Ask the service centre to explain the specific steps VW recommends in the TPI, whether it includes replacing the gearbox control unit, performing software updates, or any additional checks.
3. Inquire About Coverage:
   • Given that this is a recognised issue by VW, inquire if there’s any warranty coverage or goodwill repair assistance available, especially considering the TPI was issued recently.
4. Ensure Correct Implementation:
   • If a repair is carried out based on the TPI, ensure that all recommended steps are followed precisely, including any necessary reprogramming or recalibration of components.

Conclusion:
The release of TPI 2058102/27 by VW on June 24, 2024, strongly suggests that your issue is recognised and that there is an established procedure to address it. This is good news because it means there is a clear path forward for diagnosis and repair. Engaging with your VW dealer using this TPI will likely streamline the process and may even result in some cost assistance if VW acknowledges it as a product defect."

Consequently I have written to my VW dealership armed with this new information and will report back when I hear from them. Of course I'm bound to ask, if this TPI was released on 24th June, why was it not mentioned to me last week when I was in there for the diagnostic?

 

thank you for this as my 2018 Tiquan which I bought a pre reg Aug 2018, I bought the end of Sept 2019 and the car broke down around 8th September 2020 costing me £1763 . I will now go back to the dealership on this

LAB 880.00 880.00 S REPLACED CLUTCH, FLYWHEEL AND RELEASE BEARING ASSEMBLY X V0A5 141 671 S Rel.bear. 1 48.29 EACH 0.00 48.29 S X VN 903 207 01 SCREW 6 1.59 EACH 0.00 9.54 S X VN 906 650 01 BOLT 6 2.97 EACH 0.00 17.82 S X Z641442099 CLUTCH KIT 1 200.00 EACH 0.00 200.00 S X Z336441550 FLYWHEEL 1 300.00 EACH 0.00 300.00 S X Z640440500 BOLTS 3 4.54 EACH 0.00 13.62 S Menu Subtotal: 1469.27 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FHC S Carried out Free Vehicle Check KET S Your service advisor today was Courtney I personally thank you for your visit. If you are not extremely satisfied with the service you have received please email ME at courtney.lewis@parkwayvolkswagen.co.uk Or Call 01536 431600 Total Disc. Net 1469.27 VAT 293.85 Total Owing 1763.1

 

I too am contacting my VW dealership over the weekend. I haven't had time speak to them or book the Tig in yet as literally just back from holiday today.

I'd be interested to see what (if any) goodwill gestures might be made now that we know that a TPI has been produced internally.

The plot thickens.....

 

Adam, that snippet of information you posted from your AA guy could well be groundbreaking stuff. I've since had a long and significant conversation with one of my oldest friends who is literally, the most litigious and confrontational lawyer I've ever met. He's firmly of the opinion that this is a slam dunk in the small claims court, but obviously we don't want to have to resort to that, and in any case we're obliged under the process, to give VW the opportunity to rectify things first.
Here's what I sent to my VW dealer today -

"Hi Lisa,
As you're no doubt aware I brought the Tiguan in for the diagnostic as arranged on 21st August and you can see the result of that on the system I'm sure.
Since then I have come across the following information in the Tiguan Forum online from an owner with the exact same fault code as mine. His car broke down today.

"Interestingly the AA tech informed us that VW have released an internal TPI (Technical Product Information) on this fault - "TPI 2058102/27". This was released on the 24th June 2024."

1. Can you please review TPI 2058102/27 and provide details on how it applies to my vehicle?
2. Could you also please explain the specific steps VW recommends in the TPI, whether it includes replacing the gearbox control unit, performing software updates, or any additional checks.
3. Given that this is quite obviously a recognised issue by VW, can you please inquire again if there’s any warranty coverage or goodwill repair assistance available, especially considering the TPI was issued so recently. If not, why not?
4. The most obvious question to me is that if this TPI was released on June 24th 2024, how come it wasn't mentioned to me when I was in the showroom on 21st August?

I look forward to your earliest reply."

Obviously I haven't mentioned litigation or consumer law yet, because in an ideal world they'll play ball and cough up for the repairs, but I'll keep you posted on the reply I get. FYI I cant find any reference online to "TPI 2058102/27". despite some deep searching so we'll wait to see what me dealer says.

 

Interested to know if you've made any progress Brian?

(No update from me yet, the car isn't going in to the dealership until 17th Sept!)

Also, does anyone have access to ERWIN? I'd like to see exactly what is detailed in the TPI.

 

Plenty of progress, all of it bad! A VW UK customer service rep phoned me and said VW weren't going to give me any assistance in the cost of repair and then tried to sell me a 2 year warranty for £720 to "protect my car going forward"! When I pointed out my views on VW's mechatronics not being of merchantable quality or lasting a 'reasonable' amount of time before breaking down, (Consumer Rights Act 2015) she said, that's what the original 3 year, or 60,000 mile warranty was there to cover. In other words, if your car lasts 3 years that's fine but after that, you're on your own. As she stated, "all car makes have problems" and if your car's out of warranty, tough luck. She also said if I don't like their decision I can always take it to the Motor Ombudsman (Home), which of course I will have to do, because you can't really proceed with the small claims court until you've exhausted all potential avenues towards a solution. To add insult to injury, my local dealer made me pay £560 up front to order the gearbox sensor unit in from Germany because it's 'VIN specific' and it'll be 2 weeks before it arrives! The gearbox warning light now comes on during every single journey after about 15 mins driving and I lose gears 1,3,5 and 7. Oh, one other thing. Both she and my local dealer service manager both refused point blank to discuss the content or context of the TPI when questioned. The plot thickens....

 

Hi from Australia! I feel your pain. I have a 2017 Tiguan and just googled to find out if anyone else has had a similar problem and ive found your post. Doesnt give me any hope that VW will come to the party 😒. I had my car in for its service (non VW dealership) last week. Brake linings needed replacing, had leak in coolant which they found the problem with. Cost me a bit of $ but i thought car has done 50,000 km and we were heading on a long trip next day. An hour out had the warning light noting emwrgency gear box issue. Turned around and on drive back evident was sticking in between gears. Mecanic looked at it and said issue had nothing to do with a fault during the service, mechatronic needed replacing and progamming would take a day. Told it was a common problem with this vehicle. So we asked as you did if VW would come to the party. He said from his experience no. I was considering trading it in next year for a newer model. Having read too many Tinguan owners having exoerience same problems with the vehicle i recently have had with bad reviews this morning with no assistance from VW when it has been sought, i think i will sadly look at a different type of car altogether in the future.

 

My 2018 Tiguan all space required a new gear box and drive shaft at 33k miles, The car was a pre reg - Aug and I bought it End of Sept 2018 told be the dealership in Lincoln that I had a 2 year warranty. The breakdown happened around 8th of September 2018 where the gear box completely failed on the motorway - cost me over £2,500 to get it fixed with VW and they DID NOT contribute at all. I had previously had a passat and Golf and had no issues at all. I am not sure what is going on with VW UK but they were most unhelpful, I know they were going through a change in management at the time, they were not at all interested

 

Sorry i should say the fault happened 2020 not 2018