Transmission Control Module Safety Functions

If one or more components and/or sensors malfunction, the transmission control module activates the corresponding back-up functions. This guarantees the non-destructive operation of the transmission with the respective impact on the function and quality of changing gears.

When malfunctions are detected by the transmission, there are four possible situations:

• 1.: The fault is stored and a substitute program permits further driving (in some cases with restrictions). The driver is not notified of this status, because it is neither critical for the driving safety nor for the transmission. The transmission range display in the instrument cluster provides a normal display of the engaged selector lever position. The driver will only notice the fault, if at all, in terms of handling problems and should then consult an Audi Service partner immediately.
• 2. Individual selector lever positions will flash in the transmission range display in the instrument cluster. This signals to the driver that the gear selection is currently not possible. This is the case if, for example the driving gear "D" is engaged when driving in reverse (selector lever position "R" and the vehicle is still rolling backwards). In this case the "D" selector lever position flashes in the transmission range display in the instrument cluster. The transmission control module blocks the 1st gear from engaging to prevent damaging the transmission. The 1st gear is engaged after the vehicle comes to a standstill.
• 3. The transmission range display in the instrument cluster is completely illuminated and flashing. The selector lever position can be recognized in the instrument cluster, for example "D" is highlighted. The transmission was overloaded in this case and the maximum temperature in the transmission was exceeded (overheating), for example, due to towing a trailer with an excessively high load.
• 4. A fully illuminated and flashing transmission range display in the instrument cluster is an indication of a serious fault in the transmission. It can no longer be identified which selector lever position is selected in the instrument cluster display. The status is critical for driving safety or for the transmission. Under certain conditions, none of the gears can be engaged. The flashing transmission range indicator prompts the driver to contact an Audi service partner immediately.