DQ381 DSG reviews to help you avoid costly gearbox failures

• The transmission responds more slowly to the accelerator pedal, shifts more slowly or loses gear.
• There is some jerking in low gears, especially in city traffic
• It is less durable than the DQ250 model gearbox
• Possible improvement by adjusting the software
• Improved gearbox performance in sport mode
  
  

How do I operate the DQ381 DSG gearbox correctly?

Correct operation significantly extends the life of the DSG DQ381

• Always stop at "D" or "P"
• Allow the gearbox to warm up before driving dynamically
• Avoid frequent DNR changes
• Don't suddenly start driving uphill
• Change the oil regularly
• Do not overload the gearbox in sport mode

The most common problems with the DSG DQ381 gearbox:

The DSG DQ381 suffers from a number of common faults that affect driving comfort. Problems with the DQ381 DSG usually manifest themselves in jerks when shifting and a delayed response to the accelerator. The complaints occur more often in city traffic.

Drivers also report problems with the differential mechanism, which leads to unpleasant knocking noises. The failure rate of the DSG DQ381 is often due to a defective TCU (Transmission Control Unit). The design of this gearbox proved to be less successful than that of the previous DSG DQ250 model.

• 2-4-R gears not working
• 1-3-5 gears not working
• P0805 Clutch position sensor function incorrect
• P1735 ( 10666 ) Clutch Position Sensor 1, Electrical Fault
• P1736 ( 10668 ) Clutch position sensor 2, electrical fault
• Odometer message - Gearbox failure
• Shock when downshifting - occurs mainly in 2nd and 3rd gear
• Odometer message - Gearbox failure
• Delayed throttle response - up to 2-3 seconds delay
• Knocking noise from differential - especially when driving off
• Problems with the control electronics - incorrect gear changes

Durability of the DQ381 DSG gearbox

From the experience with the DSG DQ381 b it seems that the first serious problems occur after 60-80 thousand kilometers.

Mechanics advise changing the oil more often than the manufacturer recommends. Users report significantly shorter lifespan of mechanical components than with the previous generation. The reliability of the DSG DQ381 is rated significantly worse than that of the DQ250 .

The major components should be replaced after 4-5 years of normal use. The clutches show signs of wear much earlier than the previous model, the DQ250.

How much does it cost to repair a DQ381 DSG gearbox?

The repair costs of the DQ381 gearbox are considerably higher than those of manual gearboxes. Replacing new mechatronics can cost 3,000 euros.

Our alternative is the repair of defective mechatronics. The repair eliminates factory production errors. The price for repairing only the mechatronics DQ381 without installation in your car ranges from 350 to 500 euros. The price for repairing a defective mechatronics DQ381 with installation is 1000-1500 euros.

Regular maintenance prevents more serious malfunctions. Change the oil every 40-60 thousand kilometers. It is also worth performing computer diagnostics at each visit to the service center. Find your part by part number.

DQ250 or DQ381 DSG gearboxes: which should you choose?

In reviews of the DQ381, it is often compared to its predecessor, the DQ250. The older design is smoother to use and more durable. In daily use, the DQ250 offers more predictable behavior.

The newer DQ500 DSG gearboxes solve most of the problems of the DQ381. They offer better torque management and faster throttle response. They also offer higher mechanical strength.

In the compact segment, the DQ200 gearbox is also worth considering. It is lighter and simpler in construction than the DQ381. It works better in cars with lower power.

How can the performance of the DQ381 gearbox be improved?

By adjusting the software, you can significantly improve the performance of the DQ381. New software solves some tearing issues.

Regular oil change every 40-60 thousand kilometers significantly affects the smooth operation. It is also worth adjusting the gearbox after each oil change. Regular diagnostics helps to detect problems at an early stage.

The software update changes the shift characteristics. The gearbox functions more predictably after the adjustment.

Advantages of the DQ381 DSG gearbox:

• The gearbox can handle high torque well.
• The DSG DQ381 shifts quickly into sport mode.
• The gearbox ensures low fuel consumption on the road.
• The system adapts to the driver's driving style.
• The driving comfort is high.