Specs Cars

Troubleshooting a 1996 Audi Transmission

1. Notice if there is red fluid leaking from your Audi and onto the ground. If so, you most likely have a transmission fluid leak.
2. Set up ramps in front of your Audi and drive up the ramps. Engage the parking brake and put a wood block behind a rear tire. Turn off your Audi and let it cool down.
3. Look underneath your Audi using a flashlight. Find the transmission located behind the engine. Inspect the transmission for loose wiring harnesses or broken shift linkages. These problems may be the cause behind your Audis transmission problems.
4. Restart your Audi, allowing the transmission to run warm. The best time to check the transmissions fluid level is when the vehicle is still running.
5. Pop the hood and locate the transmission dipstick. You can find it on the drivers side of the engine compartment. It has a label reading transmission. Pull the dipstick out and wipe it clean with a cloth. Slide it in the tube and pull it out, reading the fluid level. If the level of fluid in the transmission gets too low, the transmission will fail.
6. Smell the transmission fluid; if you detect odor and the fluid is very dark in color, it should be replaced. Transmission fluid that is burnt or dirty can make the transmission fail.