New Member here........

I have a nice 2001 A6 4.2 with 67K miles (verified). Silver w/black Interior.
Using reverse a few months back - on an incline, caused 4 quick loud metallic noises from the trans. Since that time (using reverse gingerly)has yielded no problems until recently. Now, in AM after start, reverse is weak when car cold. This past week, it had disappeared entirely for a few minutes (until fluid warmed?). Forward gears work flawlessly, no codes.

Obviously there is a problem. My local trusted shop says the "reverse drum is broken". They are usually pretty good on the diagnostics but they don't want to do the job. Say they don't do enough of them.

Options appear to be:
- R+R myself in my garage (I lack the sufficient skills/time/etc - but considering)
- Junk it (car too nice) or dump it
- Used trans (risky and hassle w/sourcing/warranty, etc)
- Dealer repair/replace (6K!)
- Local rebuild from recommended trans shop (3.5-3.8K) or less depending on what they find. Will allow my inspection during evaluation*.
*leaning this direction

I attached the trans tag w/model info.

Suggestions welcome - otherwise, the car is in VG condition, miles excellent.

Thanks!