Hi guys. I've posted here very rarely, usually in times of great need. This is one of those times.

I have a '97 A4, FWD automatic with 87,800 miles. She's stock and I like to keep her that way. A few days ago it was pretty cold, like 30 degrees all day. I got in my car at night and about 100 feet after leaving my driveway she starts kicking like a buck after pulling out of an intersection. Feared it was the transmission, which was just confirmed by the mechanic.

So now I'm in a toss-up. I'm leaning towards fixing the car, but I wanted to know if anyone had any tips on searching for a transmission. Is it possible to switch with other trannies (like a '99 2.8 Auto, or a '97 1.8T quattro's transmission, for example) or do I need to purchase a '97 FWD Automatic transmission? Unfortunately, I am not well versed in these things. Are there other considerations to keep in mind? Should I just avoid rebuilt transmissions altogether, or would you guys opt for it if you intend on keeping a car running for another few years? Are there any (websites/locations) that are good (and trusted) to look for parts? What components would I need to be looking for if I needed to switch the transmission? Average prices that I should look for? What about average prices for rebuilt transmissions/ones salvaged from wrecked cars?

I live in the Washington DC area, right by Rockville, Maryland if that helps.

I know I'm asking a lot, so I thank anyone in advance for helping me out with these questions. If there is a guide to point me to, please do! And feel free to provide any added input.

Thanks!

 

http://www.everdrive.com/Ads/AdParts...e=Transmission

Here's a look at rebuilts with warranties. Pricey, but I'd expect that.

AAMCO can't fix yours?

 

I didn't know AAMCO performed such a service. I will look into that, thank you.

I've gotten word from about the transmission from a mechanic my father has used for ~20 years, but haven't spoken to him directly about the problem yet (will do tomorrow).

Thanks, again!

 

Don't go to AAMCO. Buy a rebuilt transmission from a reputable builder for our cars. AAMCO works on anything and I'd have trouble trusting them with a common transmission like a Hydramatic, much less a German transmission. See if you can sell your current one to a local rebuilder (or even AAMCO) for cheap - unless the rebuilt unit you buy has a core charge.

 

just looking around I hit upon this:

http://europeanexchange.iarbiz.com/XGV|rSGO68M=

 

I second the idea of not using AAMCO - they screwed me in a big way on my 300ZX. No soft music, no nice dinner, just pulled my hair, called me b*tch, and stuck it up my a**. Burn the car before taking it to them.

 

If I were you I would definately consider getting a second opinion. It's seems unusual that the tranny would just all of the sudden develop a problem that would make it undrivable. Talk to an actual Audi mechanic out of your area. Be as descriptive as you can about the problem you are having and any history that has led you to believe it is the tranny.

Lot's of trannys have limp modes that allow it to be driven to the mechanic. How is the car driving now? When the problem occured what did you do? What has been the history of the car- any tranny trouble in the past?

Then go out and check all your fuses... might be something simple.

As an example, I was having trouble with the tranny in one of my Jeeps. It wasnt shifting right and because I had just bought it I didn't know it's history. I took it to a well recommended transmission expert and asked him to take a look at it. I left it there most of the day and picked it up later that night. When I spoke to him the next day he told me the tranny was shot and needed a complete rebuild, about $1800. This was something I just wasn't prepared to do so I started doing some research and began checking the wiring (I'm pretty good at automotive electronics so I felt comfortable doint this). I end up findind a blown fuse, replaced it and now the Jeeps shifts perfectly. Saved myself $1800 with a 25 cent fuse.

Let us know what you find.

 

Find out what codes you have. You need to positive that the transimssion is bad before you replace it. You should check your fluid level also.

My wife had to replace the transmission on her VW golf. She bought a rebuilt unit with a 1 year warranty on parts and labor and had someone at world impex install it for her. It ended up costing about $2200 total. I dont remember where she got the transimssion but will try to find out.

 

Is the check engine light on?

 

Hey guys, sorry its been a hectic few days and I really appreciate the input.

Today they discovered that some water somehow leaked around my transmission. There is a chip, apparently, that is near/around the housing which they will replace. Hopefully this will work out. I'm not sure what this chip is, perhaps you guys do?