I have changed the fluid and the filter, the cars runs out fine in reverse and in all gears up to 5th, it does down shift hard to first at a stop. What else should I look to as an issue. i am getting a code for the selector being out, the dash lights up all gears no matter what you are in. Its a 97 Audi A4 Quattro 1.8t awd

 

I know nothing about Audi Auto transmissions, but it might be worth checking to see if there are shifting solenoids and if that may be the problem.

 

that is a good point to go too, may need to call a trans shop on monday to see if they can answer some questions as well

 

Good Luck w/Everything.

 

If the dash panel is all red with dark lettering instead of dark with red lettering, it's the same thing that went out on mine. The symptoms you describe are the same as what my 99 2.8 did. I don't know the Audi name, but it's the "parts neutral" switch that tells the car what gear it's in. It's located on the side of your transmission and will run around $900 on the low end to replace depending on your mechanic. The part alone is about $550 since it has to be ordered directly through Audi.