98 a6 quattro 2.8
212800 miles
5spd auto w/tiptronic

hi there guys,

so i took my a6 in today to have the transmission fluid and filter serviced, i was having inconsistent shifts mainly 3-4, but in the last 3 days or so it was holding 2nd way to long i would have to pedal it to 3200rpm to hit 3rd. with a shady service history i figured what could it hurt to service it. while at the shop they called me and said "your trannys toast" i ran down to the shop and he said the fluid was almost black and that means shes done for, i asked to see the fluid and he showed me it, it was very dark brown but had no scent, i asked if he found any metal in the pan and he said "no, just a little bit of clutch material" but having not been serviced in 2-5+ years i would expect some material? after the fluid and filter service the car shifts alot better, it no longer holds 2nd, 3-4 is still a little inconsistent but nowhere near how it was and honestly it might just be how i drive (im very inconsistent sometimes im a granny othertimes i have my foot in it) knowing the facts: dark brown fluid but no burnt smell and no metal in the pan. would you agree that its time for a transmission? any input is greatly appreciated!! thanks guys.

Robert L.