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Volkswagen Golf Mk7 Owners Manual: Fault in the function of the automatic gearbox

If every selector-position display in the Volkswagen Golf Mk7 instrument cluster shows a lit background at once, the automatic gearbox has entered its emergency programme due to a system fault. This page explains what that programme does to the car's behaviour and what to do next.

First read and observe the introductory information and safety warnings

Emergency programme

There is a fault in the system if all the displays on the instrument cluster for the selector lever positions have a light background. The automatic gearbox is running in an emergency programme. The vehicle can still be driven in the emergency programme, but only at reduced speed and not in all gears.

In vehicles with a dual clutch gearbox DSG®, you may no longer be able to select reverse gear.

In all cases the automatic gearbox should be checked by a qualified workshop immediately.

Overheating of the dual clutch gearbox DSG®

The dual clutch gearbox can overheat when the vehicle pulls off regularly, travels at a crawl for long periods, or in stop and go traffic. Gearbox overheating is indicated by the warning lamp and in some cases by a text message in the instrument cluster display. An acoustic warning may also be heard. Stop the vehicle and allow the gearbox to cool down  .

The vehicle will not move forwards or backwards even though a gear has been selected

If the vehicle will not move in the required direction, the system may have selected the position incorrectly. Depress the brake pedal and reselect the position.

If the vehicle still does not move in the required direction, there is a system fault. Seek expert assistance and have the system checked.

NOTICE

  • If the display indicates that the gearbox is overheating for the first time, the vehicle will have to be parked safely or driven faster than 20 km/h (12 mph).
  • If the text message and acoustic warning are repeated approximately every 10 seconds, the vehicle must be parked safely immediately and the engine switched off. Allow the gearbox to cool down.
  • In order to prevent damage to the gearbox, you should not drive on until the acoustic warning stops. You should not pull away or drive the vehicle at very low speeds while the gearbox is overheated.

    Questions & answers

    Fault in the function of the automatic gearbox — Volkswagen Golf Mk7

    What does the Golf Mk7 gearbox emergency programme mean?
    All selector lever position displays are lit on the instrument cluster, indicating a fault. The gearbox locks into a safe gear with limited performance. Drive carefully to a workshop.
    Can I keep driving the Golf Mk7 in gearbox emergency mode?
    You can drive at reduced speed to reach a workshop, but performance and fuel economy are severely compromised. Avoid heavy acceleration and have the fault diagnosed as soon as possible.
    What should I do if the Golf Mk7 DSG will not shift at all?
    Stop safely, select P, switch off the engine, wait a minute and restart. If the fault persists, do not drive — call for roadside assistance.
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