DSG transmissions are an amazing bit of technology that allows lightning fast shifting and high power handling. The complexity of this technology imparts some new challenges to vehicle service however. Our technicians are trained from DSG fluid flushes to full rebuilds and everything in between.

DSG fluid lives a hard life, it is responsible for the lubrication of internal components as well as the actuation of valves inside the transmission. It also lubricates the clutch pack, with every shift the long chain polymers needed to maintain viscosity are sheared and clutch material is deposited into the fluid. DSG fluid should be changed at least every 40 thousand miles and more often on vehicles driven aggressively or on track. We use Pentosin FFL fluid which is a manufacturer approved first fill and service fill transmission fluid. OEM DSG filters are installed as well.

DSG clutches typically last quite a long time before needing replacement. The clutch discs are lubricated by the DSG fluid and due to the very short shift time there is minimal slipping and associated friction material wear between shifts. Wear can occur while slowing to a complete stop and accelerating from a complete stop and you should always be sure to use the brake to hold the vehicle in place on a hill, never "slip the clutch" to keep it in place. When the clutches are in need of replacement there will typically be a noticeable decrease in transmission function as well as DTC codes generated relating to the issue.

Mechatronics is the brains of a DSG transmission, if the Mechatronics unit encounters a failure it could leave you with only partial transmission functionality or possibly none at all. Achtuning can help with replacement of the Mechatronics unit or with replacement of the wiring harness on DL501 transmissions.

Many Front Wheel Drive Volkswagen and Audi's have open differentials. This means the car directs all of its power to one wheel which results in major understeer and traction loss issues, especially in low grip environments. Even the All Wheel Drive variants like the Golf R and S3 have open differentials in the front and rear. While AWD is much better than FWD in terms of overall grip, there's always room for improvement. That's where a Wavetrac Limited Slip Differential comes into play. Wavetrac is the only differential on the market that will send power to the opposite wheel if one side experiences no grip due to the wheel lifting (as in aggressive cornering) or during zero load conditions (such as ice or similar low traction surfaces). A wavetrac differential responds to these circumstances and transmits power to the wheel which has traction.

• Innovative:
Patented Wavetrac® design automatically improves grip in low traction conditions. This feature is truly innovative and unlike any other torque biasing diff design.

• Superior Materials:
9310 steel gears run in case-hardened billet or forged steel bodies. ARP® fasteners used throughout.

• Maintenance Free:
As supplied new, the Wavetrac® differential will perform a lifetime of service without maintenance or rebuilds.

• Customizable:
If desired, you can alter the diff’s behavior to suit your needs using optional components.

• Limited Lifetime Warranty:
All Wavetrac® differentials include a transferable, Limited Lifetime Warranty.

"This is the only shop I'll take my car to in Washington. Likewise, they are the only APR dealer in Washington. I live down in Federal Way and it is worth the drive to get any job taken care of big or small. They were actually the only shop around that would replace my DSG Clutchpack. All the local shops including the dealer pointed to the mechatronics unit being at fault, despite what codes I was reading. They insisted on charging for a precise diagnosis, even though I had already pretty much diagnosed it myself. Achtuning was willing to do it without hesitation, and even accommodated my preference to not have them spend the extra hour replacing the DSG Fluid. (Though they did replace a liter of inevitably lost fluid). On that job in particular I saw the character of the shop as they went above and beyond and maintained a more than fair price, and the other times I've brought it there, I received the same treatment. There's no reason to take your car anywhere else if you're in Washington.

- Mike

In need of DSG service or repair? You can reach one of Achtuning's Service Advisors by calling 425-895-0000, or emailing service@achtuning.com.