Multitronic box reliability

**cashless** · 04-02-2015,11:26 PM

Hi guys, just joined the forum today. I'm not an Audi owner just yet but looking at the A5 2.7 Tdi with the Multitronic gearbox.
I'm a little worried if I'm being honest about the thought of an automatic gearbox on a 6 year old, 70k plus car. How reliable is the auto box on the 2.7? Is there any reason why the 2.7 doesn't come with a manual box?

I've heard scare stories about Audi Multi tronic gearboxes. So hoping for some reassurances from people in the know on here. I have seen a few 3.0 TDi A5's with the Multitronic box but for the most part the 3.0 TDi seems to be mainly paired with a manual box.
Again, is there any particular reason for this? All advice very much appreciated. Thanks.

**cashless** · 05-02-2015,02:18 PM

No one?

**EssexGonzo** · 05-02-2015,03:11 PM

The scare stories seem to originate from two populations......those that have never been near one or have a model with another sort of box and those who have had the misfortune to buy a car with one which hasn't been cared for properly.

It seems you're looking at a 2008/9 car - by this time, Audi had ironed out the manufacturing related reliability issues.

I talk from experience of a 2007 A6 with Multitronic. The critical thing to look for here is whether or not it's had the gearbox fluid change(s) at the right stage. You should see firm evidence that one was done at 38k/40k miles (or similar). If it hasn't been done by Audi or a credible specialist, walk away. Another change will be due soon. Also look out for juddering on hills, driving away from standstill and juddering when cold. Insist you drive the car from cold.

I've had zero issues with my box and my car is now on 122k miles and I've had it since new. It's had all the service attention needed and has been driven responsibly, which doesn't always mean slowly - but I haven't tried to thrash it from standing starts etc.

Good luck!

**cashless** · 07-02-2015,12:18 PM

Originally Posted by EssexGonzo

The scare stories seem to originate from two populations......those that have never been near one or have a model with another sort of box and those who have had the misfortune to buy a car with one which hasn't been cared for properly.

It seems you're looking at a 2008/9 car - by this time, Audi had ironed out the manufacturing related reliability issues.

I talk from experience of a 2007 A6 with Multitronic. The critical thing to look for here is whether or not it's had the gearbox fluid change(s) at the right stage. You should see firm evidence that one was done at 38k/40k miles (or similar). If it hasn't been done by Audi or a credible specialist, walk away. Another change will be due soon. Also look out for juddering on hills, driving away from standstill and juddering when cold. Insist you drive the car from cold.

I've had zero issues with my box and my car is now on 122k miles and I've had it since new. It's had all the car needed and has been driven responsibly, which doesn't always mean slowly - but I haven't tried to thrash it from standing starts etc.

Good luck!

I have been doing a little more research on this and it seems to me the fluid change at 40k is vital for warranty purposes. Any problems later on with the box related to failure of that fluid change would mean Audi washing their hands of any obligation under warranty.
I was more concerned with the reports of Ecu failure on earlier boxes and whether I should be concerned if buying a 2008 onward car with the multitronic box? Have any of you guys with this type of gearbox on your 2008 onward models suffered with major problems? If so, let's hear ya! Please

**cashless** · 07-02-2015,04:16 PM

Everyone happy with their Multitronic gearboxes then? No significant number of A5 2008 (onward) owners experiencing any issues with their Multitronic boxes?

**Whippy53** · 07-02-2015,05:01 PM

I looked hard at this and it seems like Audi eventually got it right, very few problems with later boxes. Earlier boxes had problems with clutch pack and any box is to be avoided if it hasnt had its oil changes.

**cashless** · 07-02-2015,05:06 PM

Originally Posted by Whippy53

I looked hard at this and it seems like Audi eventually got it right, very few problems with later boxes. Earlier boxes had problems with clutch pack and any box is to be avoided if it hasnt had its oil changes.

Even on the older A5's? Say 2007/2008 onward? I'm looking at buying one but can't make my mind up on either the 3.0tdi manual or 2.7tdi Multitronic.

**Whippy53** · 07-02-2015,05:36 PM

Between those two I would go for the 3.0ltr. Regardless of box.

**gupsterg** · 07-02-2015,08:51 PM

Cashless,

The distinct lack of responses is due to there being not many A5 members on this forum, don't get me wrong this is a great forum. If you google search you'll find A5 specific forums where there is a higher concentration of owners.

The replies posted are good info, most of the tech and some parts are shared on the VAG cars so EssexGonzo's experience with his multitronic is valid but on a more A5 oriented forum you'll get more info regarding what to look out for on the car as the owners will have more experience to share.

All the best with your car hunting and hope you report back once you've bought one

.

**cashless** · 07-02-2015,09:11 PM

Originally Posted by gupsterg

Cashless,

The distinct lack of responses is due to there being not many A5 members on this forum, don't get me wrong this is a great forum. If you google search you'll find A5 specific forums where there is a higher concentration of owners.

The replies posted are good info, most of the tech and some parts are shared on the VAG cars so EssexGonzo's experience with his multitronic is valid but on a more A5 oriented forum you'll get more info regarding what to look out for on the car as the owners will have more experience to share.

All the best with your car hunting and hope you report back once you've bought one

.

Thanks dude, I'll take your advice and see how I get on