How Often Should a Volkswagen DSG Transmission Be Serviced?

When it comes to dual-clutch transmissions (DCT), there’s no doubt that the Volkswagen Group has been at the forefront of development. VW was one of the first manufacturers to make use of the unique gearbox, and their Direct-Shift Gearbox (DSG) transmission has been seen in various Volkswagens and VW Group vehicles ever since. DSGs are labeled as S-Tronic on Audi models that use the transmission. 

With such a complex transmission, however, you may become curious about the maintenance required to keep its many moving parts operating smoothly. In this article, we’ll dive into how these special transmissions work, their benefits and drawbacks, as well as how and when they should be serviced to ensure their condition. 

How Do DSGs Work?

DCTs, and Volkswagen’s proprietary DSG version, differ quite a bit from traditional gearboxes. For one, the dual-clutch nature of the transmission. DCTs use two separate clutches and a set of gearboxes, with one gearbox handling first, third, fifth, and reverse; while the other gearbox handles second, fourth, and sixth. Through this back-and-forth process, DCTs are able to virtually skip the delay of traditional auto or manual shifting by switching between clutches and gearboxes as directed by the vehicle’s computers and sensors. 

From the driver’s perspective, DCTs and DSGs will seem quite familiar as the controls are essentially the same as any automatic transmission. Most DCTs will also include a manual shift mode that allows the driver to shift gears through paddles on the steering wheel while not having to worry about the clutch. All clutch control is controlled by a complex array of sensors and instructions from the transmission control unit (TCU), which predict when the vehicle will change gears next. It then begins the shift process on the other transmission before the current clutch has even been disengaged. These fast and seamless shifts are where DSGs really show their strength. 

Pros & Cons of DSGs

As such a unique transmission, DCT transmissions bring a variety of differences compared to traditional gearboxes, some good and some bad. 

For one, the quick and seamless shifts of a DCT provide superior performance to auto or manual transmissions as the engine can continue delivering uninterrupted power to the drivetrain as the transmission switches gears. By avoiding the loss of power to a disengaged flywheel during shifts, DCT/DSG vehicles also tend to be more reliable than either traditional auto or manuals. For this reason, DSGs are a prime choice for performance or luxury VW Group vehicles. 

DSGs and their paddle shifters also allow for an engaging driving experience despite the lack of a manually controlled clutch. While clutch control is automated by the computer, the optional manual mode allows for the driver to take the reigns on shifting gears. 

DCTs are not without their downsides though. The chief-among-them being the sheer complexity of manufacturing and repairing these transmissions. With the number of unique components and manufacturing techniques, new vehicles with DCTs will generally cost more than ones with traditional transmissions. Maintenance and repair will also be costlier, as repairs and rebuilds often take more time and specialized training. 

Another common complaint among drivers of DCT vehicles is how they handle at low speeds. In many DCTs, low-speed driving may cause the vehicle to feel jerky and lurch forward. This is a sensation DSG drivers will become accustomed to, but can be an off-putting feeling for those who are used to the smooth operation of their automatic at those speeds. 

How Often Should I Service My DSG?

Despite the DSGs many differences compared to traditional gearboxes, caring for them is surprisingly similar. 

Like other transmissions, DCTs require regular replacement of the fluid and filter to limit friction and heat build-up within the internals of the transmission. However, DSGs can’t just take any old fluid or filter, as they require both to be specific to that particular transmission. Running the improper fluid in your transmission can cause irreparable damage. 

The service interval between these changes depends on the specific model of vehicle and transmission, however, you should expect to be replacing yours anywhere between 40,000-80,000 miles. The best source of information about your specific transmission is in the owner’s manual, but the manufacturer’s website will likely also have an accurate number. 

DSG and DCT Services at Alex’s Autohaus

When it’s time to service your VW/Audi’s DSG, trust the transmission experts at Alex’s Autohaus in the Salt Lake Valley to properly care for it! Our team has extensive experience servicing DCT-style transmissions on all European vehicles and will ensure yours is ready to provide you with the rapid shifts and exciting driving experience they’re known for. Give us a call or schedule online today!