Ok. I would love to know what is causing my 1997 A4 1.8T to keep loosing reverse?? I have already replaced the multi-function switch. The only problem occuring with the reverse out is that my car will not shift into 5th gear. I have already looked in archives, and found same problem, but no help as to what it was? Is it possible that an O2 sensor could cause this? What about a cracked gasket leaking oil on the switch? I need help before i spend $1300 to replace the switch again!!

Thank you - crystal

 

I am assuming that you have a manual transmission, not a tiptronic?

 

I have an automatic.

 

Sounds like either the switch or sensor is not aligned properly.

 

its a 1997 automatic not tiptronic?? most problems are with slack wiring to the throttle body hence it never reaches optimum speed/rpm to change into 5th ( check the linkage ) kick down issue,

reverse could be linked but in most cases its a worn selector os software issue - there is a ball bearing on the shift lever which locates when putting into reverse it could be worn but linkage sounds more like the problem.

automatics are not my area but these seem to be relevant issues

 

What is a tiptronic? Also, my gear selector in the guages box (it's digital) stays lit like i am in all gears. Would that have something to do with button on the gear shift? What is os software?

Thank you so much for helping me.

 

Sounds like the transmission is in LIMP mode. The car does this to protect the transmission from damage. You will only have 4th gear and reverse. You will have to access a vagcom and read the codes from the transmission control unit to tell you what is wrong. It may be the transmission or the transmission control unit.

 

What sensor could it be?