The 7-speed DSG gearbox was introduced by Volkswagen Group in 2008. The 7-speed DSG gearbox is found in smaller front-wheel-drive cars, such as Skoda, Volkswagen Polo MK5, Volkswagen Golf, and SEAT Ibiza. Nonetheless, what are the Skoda 7-speed DSG gearbox problems?
Even though the Skoda 7-Speed DSG gearbox is reliable and performs well, it also comes with several issues. Some of the Skoda 7-Speed DSG gearbox problems are external low-pressure leaks, internal high-pressure hydraulic leaks, dual-clutch wear & tear, TCU failure, and electro-hydraulic control unit failure.
What are the common problems with the Skoda 7-speed DSG gearbox?
Internal high-pressure hydraulic leaks
Unfortunately, it is common for cars with 7-speed DSG gearboxes to experience high-pressure hydraulic leaks. In most cases, it is caused by problems with the gasket within the system. Note that the unit sits within a metal housing that connects to the DSG transmission with a gasket and screws. Therefore, if any of these parts wear out or get damaged, leaks can happen.
Besides, high-pressure leaks are very common on the accumulator mounting that screws into the valve body. Like most gearbox problems, fixing this issue is time-consuming and costly. Moreover, the user will have to rebuild or replace the entire mechatronic unit to fix the problem.
External low-pressure leaks
The mechatronic system suffers a lot of issues that make the driver experiences symptoms like incorrect gear changes, hard gear changes, or even loss of drive. What’s more, drivers may notice external low-pressure leaks. Like the above issue, external low-pressure leaks can also be caused by problems with the gasket system.
To fix this issue, you will have to be forced to rebuild the mechatronic or replace it altogether. It is also very costly to fix and repair.
TCU failure
The transmission control unit, which is also referred to as the transmission control module or gearbox control unit controls electronic automatic transmissions. If this part fails, your gearbox won’t function properly. The main thing that causes the TCU to fail is an overloaded or burnt-out module. In most cases, this is caused by an overload of voltage or amperage.
Since there are so many things that can cause the TCU or TCM to fail, you need to take your car to a professional mechanic for diagnosis. If the TCM is short, you will have to replace it, but in other situations, you may be forced to replace the mechatronic unit.
Dual clutch wear and tear
The DSG clutches on the 7-speed DSG gearbox feature two individual friction material design discs, housed in one unit with two operating diaphragms. And since they are made of the same material as the regular manual transmission clutch, they also suffer from the same wear and tear.
To fix this issue, you will have to replace the dual-clutch unit before it wears out. The manufacturer advises replacing clutches every 60,000 to 80,000 miles.
Electro-hydraulic control unit failure
The electro-hydraulic control unit comes with all the mechanics necessary for controlling the shift forks that engage the gears themselves. Furthermore, it is located on the side of the transmission if this part fails, the gearbox won’t function properly.
If you notice that the electro-hydraulic control unit has failed, you will have to replace it to fix the problem.
FAQ
Is the 7-speed DSG gearbox reliable?
Yes, the 7-speed DSG gearbox is pretty reliable. However, the longevity of the gearbox is usually determined by how well the user maintains the gearbox. In most cases, the 7-speed DSG gearbox will last for more than 100,000 miles. But if the car is not driven properly, the gearbox may not even clock over 40,000 miles.
How long does the 7-speed DSG gearbox last?
It depends on whether it is a wet or dry 7-speed DSG gearbox. In the case of Skoda, it is a dry 7-speed DSG gearbox. Note that a dry 7-speed DSG gearbox has a short lifespan of about 60,000 to 80,000 miles. On the contrary, if the clutch slips a lot during its lifespan, then the gearbox may not last this long.
On the other hand, the wet 7-speed DSG gearbox lasts longer as it has a lifespan of around 150,000 miles, which is almost double that of a dry DSG gearbox. This is because a wet DSG gearbox is much gentler on the clutches.
Does a 7-speed DSG gearbox need an oil change?
Yes, a 7-speed DSG gearbox requires an oil change to perform exceptionally well. It is recommended to change the DSG gearbox oil every 40,000 miles. What’s more, depending on your car, you may have to change the oil and oil filter. So, all the gearbox automatic transmission fluid oil has to be changed for the smooth operation of the gearbox.
How do you prevent DSG gearbox failure?
Despite the DSG gearbox is very reliable, it can still fail faster than its recommended time when it’s not well taken care of. Nonetheless, you can still prevent DSG gearbox failure by taking several precautions. Some of the precautions include:
- Avoid launching the car improperly
- Avoid using the accelerator to keep the car on slopes
- Avoid upshifting when braking or vice versa
- Avoid putting the car in neutral
- Don’t let the foot off the brake
- Avoid engaging neutral when going downhill
Which DSG gearbox is the best – wet or dry DSG gearbox?
The wet DSG gearbox has more advantages than the dry DSG gearbox. First and foremost, the wet DSG gearbox is less prone to wear and tear compared to a dry DSG gearbox. What’s more, oil in a wet DSG gearbox acts as a lubricant that helps to reduce friction and increase the lifespan of the gearbox. Furthermore, wet DSG gearboxes tend to be more reliable and need less maintenance.
Final thoughts
The Skoda 7-speed DSG gearbox has proven to be reliable and durable in both six, and seven-speed variants. However, as you put on several miles, you should start experiencing some issues along the way. But with proper care and maintenance, you can easily avoid some of the problems the Skoda 7-Speed DSG gearbox users face.
