What is the reason for the flashing P gear and failure to start in the Magotan?
4 Answers
The reason for the flashing P gear and failure to start in the Volkswagen Magotan is gear disengagement. Engine: The Volkswagen Magotan is a mid-size car equipped with a 1.4T turbocharged engine and a 2.0T turbocharged engine. It is paired with a dry dual-clutch transmission and a wet dual-clutch transmission. Body Dimensions: The length is 4865 mm, the width is 1832 mm, the height is 1471 mm, and the wheelbase is 2871 mm. Interior: The Magotan's interior has been redesigned with a smooth and elegant typical European style, following ergonomic principles and high-efficiency design concepts, creating an impressive luxurious temperament.
Last time when driving the Magotan, I also encountered the issue where the P gear was flashing red and the car wouldn't start. After struggling for a while, I found out it was due to poor contact in the brake switch under the foot. Volkswagen automatic transmission vehicles lock the P gear if the brake isn't pressed, and the signal won't reach the transmission computer. Besides this, the travel switch inside the gear lever base is also prone to problems. Plastic parts wear out or get oxidized after prolonged use or water ingress, and if the computer doesn't receive the P gear engagement signal, it will flash a warning light. Loose wiring harness connectors or the transmission computer itself acting up can also cause this. If you're in a hurry to drive, you can try pressing the brake pedal firmly a few times—if the switch makes temporary contact, the car might start. However, it's still necessary to read the fault codes as soon as possible to fix the issue properly.
When repairing cars, I often encounter the issue of the Magotan's P gear flashing and failing to start. The core problem is that the transmission controller does not receive the P gear confirmation signal. Either the microswitch in the gear lever assembly is faulty—that component detects the gear position—or the brake light switch has failed, making the system think you're trying to start the engine without pressing the brake pedal. In rare cases, the gear lock solenoid valve might be stuck. Such electromechanical issues are difficult to diagnose accurately on your own. It's more reliable to connect a diagnostic tool to check the transmission data stream and measure the resistance values of related sensors. By the way, I’d like to remind car owners not to force the gear lever, as it can easily snap the shift cable, leading to more trouble.
Attention to friends driving German cars, flashing P gear and failure to start usually indicate a gear recognition malfunction. If the transmission control module does not detect the P gear signal, it will lock the starting circuit. Common causes include dirty contacts on the shift mechanism base, damaged signal wiring due to floor mat pressure, or misaligned sensors from shifting to P gear before the car comes to a complete stop. I once handled a case where water in the driver's footwell after rain soaked the wiring harness connector. In an emergency, you can temporarily shift to N gear to start the car by turning the mechanical key in the unlocking hole next to the shift lever.
