Why do we need to service our DSG gearboxes? DSG stands for direct-shift-gearbox, which is a type of dual-clutch automatic gearbox found in many Volkswagen Audi Group (VAG) cars. A DSG service is important because it helps keep the gearbox well maintained and running efficiently.
Generally a DSG service typically includes: Checking for leaks or issues, Draining the used oil, Replacing the filter and oil. We then test drive to make sure the gearbox works properly.
1. Ensuring Longevity and Reliability:
- Wear and Tear: Over time, components within the DSG, such as clutches, gears, and mechatronic units, experience wear. However, regular servicing helps identify and address these issues early, preventing major failures.
- Fluid Degradation: DSG gearboxes use specific transmission fluids that degrade over time due to heat and friction. By replacing this fluid at recommended intervals, ensures smooth operation and reduces wear on internal components.
2. Maintaining Performance:
- Smooth Shifting: Fresh transmission fluid and well-maintained components ensure that the gearbox shifts smoothly and efficiently. Undoubtedly providing a better driving experience.
- Optimal Operation: Regular servicing keeps the gearbox operating at its best. Maintaining the precise and quick shifts DSG gearboxes are known for.
3. Preventing Costly Repairs:
- Early Detection: Routine inspections during servicing can catch potential problems before they become serious. Saving you from expensive repairs or replacements.
- Component Lifespan: Proper maintenance extends the lifespan of various gearbox components. Which can be costly to replace if they fail.
4. Safety:
- Reliable Operation: A well-maintained gearbox is crucial for the safe operation of your vehicle. Ensuring that you can rely on your transmission during critical driving situations.
5. Resale Value:
- Maintained Value: A vehicle with a well-documented service history, including regular DSG servicing, often has a higher resale value. Potential buyers are reassured by the evidence of proper maintenance. This instills the belief the vehicle has been looked after!
6. Warranty Compliance:
- Adhering to Manufacturer Guidelines: Regular servicing as per the manufacturer’s guidelines can be a requirement for maintaining the vehicles warranty. Missing scheduled services might void your warranty coverage for the gearbox.
Recommended Service Intervals:
Furthermore, the recommended interval for a DSG service is 38,000 miles. Modified or performance vehicles may require more frequent servicing due to the hard driving. Some signs that your DSG transmission may need attention include: Delayed or jerky gear shifts, Transmission warning light, Strange noises, Fluid leaks, and Loss of power or slipping gears.
Find our details ‘here‘ and get in touch for a DSG service quote!
Why do we need to service our DSG gearboxes?
Car manufacturers servicing recommendations
The importance of keeping up to date with car manufacturers servicing recommendations. Lets be honest, the majority of people don’t take pleasure is paying a bill for their car. Even though most people rely on their vehicles so heavily every single day! Therefore, when it comes to servicing requirements, it’s easy to put it off. Thinking ‘Ahh well I haven’t had any issues with the gearbox, so why does it need servicing?’ The reason we should all keep up to date with the car manufacturers recommendations is to prevent issues arising. Potentially causing secondary issues within the car! The recommendations are there for a reason so let’s not put them off!
Transmission servicing
Transmission servicing covers your Gearbox, Haldex and Differential. They all have different advisories (I know, hard to remember when to MOT, never mind to service your Haldex) however its important to at least roughly stick to the guidelines. VAG advise every 38,000 miles for your gearbox. If not serviced essentially it will result in a huge increase in friction as the more viscous contaminated fluid is unable to lubricate the metal parts properly. Your previously smooth gear shifting will become clunky, sticky and could start to slip.
The Haldex servicing requirements are different depending on which you have. Gen 1-4 is advised every 38,000 miles and Gen 5 is advised every 20,000 miles. Gen 1-4 have a filter which is changed however, Gen 5 has a gauze filter which we remove along with the pump and clean before putting back together. You can tell which Generation you have by the year usually however there are some crossovers. If you’re unsure and require this service get in touch and we can help you out. Not having your Haldex service can literally stop it from working over time resulting in your 4-wheel drive vehicle having major problems. The only fix is a costly new Haldex and that will set you back a lot more than keeping on top of the servicing!
The Differential oil, Transfer box oil and Active diff services are all recommended at 38,000 miles.
Servicing
Your Interim and Major servicing should generally be alternated and at 10,000 mile intervals/yearly. This includes your Oil, Fuel, Air and pollen filters. If you have a petrol vehicle with spark plugs these should be changed every 30,000 miles but this can change depending on your specific vehicle and driving style (You know who you are). If your vehicle is under warranty and something fails within the engine/gearbox and it is deemed to be due to poor or lack of servicing, be aware you may not be covered and will have to fork out for the repairs yourself.
Timing belt services are advised at 80,000 miles or 5 years, whichever comes first. Apart from the 1.0-1.5 Tsi engines, these are advised every 4 years regardless of milage. Not getting your timing servicing could have catastrophic consequences. When the timing belt breaks, the crankshaft will continue to spin, while the camshaft will stop turning. As a result, the pistons will continue to rise and fall in their cylinders and can, in some instances strike the valves. When this happens, the pistons, valves and cylinder heads will be damaged, and because it happens so quickly, the damage will be virtually instantaneous.
We then have your more basic servicing all regardless of mileage:
Brake fluid change – every 2 years
Coolant/anti freeze – every 5 years
Air con – every 2 years
Hopefully this gives you a brief overview of your VAG servicing requirements and how important they are! If you would like to book in you can contact us via Facebook, Our contact page or call us on 01642 613852.
