Scirocco Register

Hi all !

My '92 GTii 1.8 Auto 64k miles has started to make a funny noise when you either put it in or out of Drive or when the gearbox changes up a gear. I'd call it a squeak or squeal, but it's lower pitched than that ... best I can do to describe it is "rrraawk !" :)

It's not every time when it changes gear, but often. If you push it into neutral when moving ever so slightly (e.g. rolling up to lights) it doesn't do it, but if you stop first then put into neutral it does. It's reasonably loud.

Any ideas ?!? We're going on holiday in her in about 3 weeks time, so I'm worried this might be something that could leave us stranded ... or of course, something terminal within the 'box.

Cheers y'all
EL

When was the gearbox oil last changed?

I'm not sure, prior to me ... it's on my to-do list ... sounds like I'll be escalating that

I’ve not had an auto before but guess they still have a gearbox oil filter like most autos so I would try that 1st and change the oil, do the basic simple jobs 1st.

An ATF, gasket and filter change is a must or perhaps a couple as you cannot drain about half of it that lurks in the torque converter.

Be aware there is no drain plug - you have to drop the pan - crack the four bolts then choose a corner to drain from and back that off to allow oil to flow into your bowl accordingly. If it’s black and smells burnt that’s indicative of wear and age and will not be functioning to the optimum. What appears in the filter is also a big indicator of general condition - a few flecks of swarf probably to be expected but big chunks of metal, gasket and other crud could be a failed component.

Beyond this the only other DIY thing that can be done (this side of dropping the entire box) is dropping the valve body, dismantling a cleaning but it’s not for the faint hearted.....you can get a full refurb done for c£200

I’ve done all of the above with the luxury of a spare box and it runs ok but still get excessive judder in D and R when at a standstill which I believe is worn clutch rings and shaft seals - but still runs well.