Hello, I have a question about the transmission in my 97 a6 quattro with the 12v 2.8. Im wondering if it might not be going into overdrive. Other cars i own (i know, i know, different gearing but ya) usually sit in the 2500 range at hwy speeds (65) while the audi seems to be cruising at like 3100-3200 rpm. From a dead stop i can count 4 gears, starting in first and 3 subsequent shifts until i stopped at 80 and figured it woudnt shift again lol....Ive had no other issues with the trans, no blinking PRNDL, no hunting for gears or slipping. Just seemed engine speed was a bit high for the vehicle speed. Anyway if anyone has any input id love to have the info on if this is normal or not. Thanks again!!


Probably doesnt help i have an exhaust leak too that makes it sound like a NASCAR so im sure thats messing with my head too.....

 

It has been 10 years since I owned a C4 chassis 2.8 but I seem to remember that 3,100 rpm was about right for 65 mph. The car does not really have overdrive. It is a 4 speed gearbox with a locking torque converter. When you are going 65 you should be able to press the accelerator pedal lightly and it the rpm should not jump, if you press a little harder the torque converter clutch will open and the rpm's will increase suddenly. Another way to tell if if TC clutch is working is to use cruise control on the highway. The car and rpms should stay the same as the car goes up and down hills on the highway. My C4 never had to unlock the TC on the highway even when loaded with the entire family and cruising on the highways in Vermont.

 

excellent! thanks for the info. Ill keep in mind to try that next time i take her out.