Audi A8L Transmission Clunks
 

While slightly accelerating or letting off the gas (as happens in heavy traffic), a clunking noise can be heard and felt as a thud or thunk. Audi replaced the transmission and other components (spending thousands of dollars) with no success in resolving the problem. Now, 30,000 miles and over a year later, Audi claims the noise is "normal". However, they have not been able to provide another vehicle with this issue. I'm sure they may exist, but I would argue that Audi Germany would disagree. Help!

My car actually started to do this about 6 months ago. It only happens in the lowest gears and when I accelerate slightly and let off the gas at low speeds. Recently, the downshifts when I approach a stop are not as smooth as they used to be. Does this sound familiar? Its a fairly minor clunk, you can barely notice it.

Yes! This is exactly the "normal noise" my California Audi dealer and Audi of America reps can hear and feel as well. They keep repeating, it isn't dangerous... You and I know it's not normal. How many miles do you have on your car? What year? Is it an A8 4.2 Quatro? I felt this at 40K miles and now have 70K with a 100K warranty. I'm frustrated.

Mine is an '07, it has 140k now. It started at around 125k.

I only know it as not being normal because it was not doing it before. Its possible its something bedding in with age, but ya, I do feel it. It should be smooth all the way up the gears and back down again.