Is the Volkswagen DSG Transmission Really That Bad?

[LucasLynn]

Here is an introduction to Volkswagen's DSG transmission: Model Matching: Almost all Volkswagen models are equipped with a 7-speed DSG transmission, including the Magotan, Passat, Phideon, Teramont, Sagitar, Tiguan, and Volkswagen CC, covering nearly all models under the Volkswagen brand. DSG transmissions are further divided into dry-type and wet-type DSG transmissions. Working Principle: Both dry-type and wet-type DSG transmissions operate on the same principle, featuring two sets of clutches working simultaneously—one managing odd-numbered gears and the other managing even-numbered gears. The main difference between them lies in the connection medium between the driving and driven plates. The dry-type DSG relies on air for transmission, while the wet-type DSG uses oil.

[SanAnna]

I've driven several Volkswagen DSG models before, and they don't feel as bad as what's said online. Early dry-clutch DSGs did tend to overheat and jerk in traffic jams, but the current wet-clutch versions have improved significantly with better heat dissipation. Especially the newer transmissions like the DQ381 - the gear shifts are quick and smooth, making highway overtaking particularly powerful. The fuel consumption is also notably lower than AT transmissions, saving a decent amount on gas in the long run. Sure, there might be an occasional clunk during cold starts, but once warmed up, it's very smooth. As long as you change the transmission oil on time and avoid launch starts, this gearbox is actually quite durable.

[SanAlessandra]

When Volkswagen's dual-clutch transmissions first came out, there were indeed many issues. My friend's Magotan had its clutch plates replaced twice. But after over a decade of technological iterations, the failure rate has significantly decreased. Its advantages are particularly obvious: gear shifts are much faster than regular AT transmissions, and the power delivery from turbocharged engines is very direct. An engineer friend mentioned that Volkswagen has upgraded the transmission control program hundreds of times, making the semi-engagement control much smarter during traffic jams. If it were truly that bad, how could Volkswagen have sold millions of dual-clutch models worldwide? Just avoid the dry-clutch models when choosing a car, and you should be fine.

[DiJourney]

Over 20 years of repairing cars, I've seen all kinds of Volkswagen dual-clutch transmission failures. The older dry dual-clutch models were indeed prone to burning clutch plates under frequent urban stop-and-go conditions, with repair costs often reaching 5,000-6,000 RMB. However, post-2015 wet dual-clutch transmissions have significantly improved durability, reducing valve body failure rates by 70%. Current models like the new Tiguan L and Passat basically require no major concerns within 100,000 km. The key is to pay attention to three points: change genuine transmission fluid on schedule; avoid water wading that could short-circuit the electronic control unit; and don't climb hills with the brakes half-engaged for prolonged periods. With proper maintenance, their lifespan isn't inferior to traditional AT transmissions.