P0700 on Audi
Transmission Control System Malfunction
P0700 on Audi vehicles indicates transmission control system malfunction. Au7o has documented this code across 6 Audi models — most commonly on 100, A4, A4 Avant. P0700 is a general code indicating the transmission control module (TCM) has detected a fault somewhere in the transmission control system and has requested the check engine light be turned on. By itself it doesn't pinpoint the problem — it's an 'umbrella' code that tells you to look for additional, more specific transmission codes stored alongside it. The actual fault could be electrical, a sensor, a solenoid, or an internal transmission issue. You may notice harsh or delayed shifts, slipping, or the transmission going into a protective 'limp' mode. Typical repair costs on Audi range from $300 to $10,000, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Common Causes of P0700
- •Stored companion transmission codes pointing to the real fault
- •Faulty shift solenoid or pressure control solenoid
- •Low, dirty, or degraded transmission fluid
- •Faulty transmission speed or input/output sensor
- •Wiring, connector, or ground problems at the transmission
- •Failing transmission control module (TCM)
- •Internal transmission mechanical wear or clutch problems
- •Valve body fault or sticking valves
P0700 on Audi by Model
Audi 100(1 issue)
- Automatic Transmission Harsh Shifting1990-1994
The Audi 100/200 automatic transmission develops harsh shifting patterns and delayed engagement. The multi-plate clutches and valve body solenoids wear, particularly in higher-mileage examples.
Audi A4(1 issue)
- CVT Multitronic Transmission Failure and PRNDS Flashing on Front-Wheel-Drive A42002-2008
Front-wheel-drive A4 models equipped with the Multitronic CVT have a long history of owner complaints involving shuddering from a stop, delayed engagement, limp mode, and flashing PRNDS indicators. Failures are commonly tied to the transmission control module, internal clutch pack wear, or CVT chain/pulley problems. The issue is widely discussed in Audi forums and complaint databases because repairs are expensive and many units require replacement or specialist rebuilding.
Audi A4 Avant(1 issue)
- Multitronic CVT Transmission Failure2002-2008
The Multitronic CVT used in front-wheel drive A4 Avants is prone to premature failure of the chain, pulleys, and control unit. This transmission has a poor reliability record and is expensive to repair.
Audi A6(1 issue)
- Multitronic CVT Transmission Failure2005-2011
The Multitronic CVT (continuously variable transmission) used in C6 A6 models is notoriously unreliable and prone to catastrophic failure between 80,000-150,000 miles. The transmission uses a steel chain and hydraulic pressure system that wears over time, causing slipping, shuddering, and complete failure. Symptoms include hesitation on acceleration, jerky shifts, whining noises, or sudden loss of drive. Unlike traditional automatics, CVT failures often require complete transmission replacement—repairs are not cost-effective. Audi discontinued the Multitronic in 2012 due to reliability issues. The transmission fluid is expensive ($30/liter) and requires changes every 40,000 miles, but even with perfect maintenance, failures are common. Many A6 owners in forums report Multitronic failures under 100,000 miles, with replacement costs exceeding the car's value.
Audi S6(1 issue)
- ZF 5HP24 Tiptronic Transmission Valve Body Failure2002-2004
The ZF 5HP24 Tiptronic automatic transmission develops valve body issues causing harsh shifts, delayed engagement, and eventually limp mode. The electronic solenoids and valve body bore wear are the primary failure modes.
Audi TT(1 issue)
- S-Tronic DSG Transmission Issues (Mk2)2008-2015
Early Mk2 TT models (2008-2009) with the 6-speed or 7-speed S-Tronic dual-clutch transmission (DSG) experience frequent mechatronic unit and clutch pack failures. Symptoms include rough or delayed shifting at low speeds, hesitation when accelerating, jerking when engaging gears, and complete transmission failure requiring tow. The mechatronic unit (valve body) suffers from software glitches and internal failures. Audi marketed DSG as "sealed for life," but fluid and filter changes every 40,000 miles dramatically reduce failure rates. Reports of DSG failures tapered off after 2009 model year with updated parts. Repair costs for mechatronic replacement are $2,000-$4,000. TTForum.co.uk reports many 2008-2009 owners experiencing this issue.
Looking for P0700 on a different make?
View P0700 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0700 mean on Audi?▼
P0700 stands for "Transmission Control System Malfunction." P0700 is a general code indicating the transmission control module (TCM) has detected a fault somewhere in the transmission control system and has requested the check engine light be turned on. By itself it doesn't pinpoint the problem — it's an 'umbrella' code that tells you to look for additional, more specific transmission codes stored alongside it. The actual fault could be electrical, a sensor, a solenoid, or an internal transmission issue. You may notice harsh or delayed shifts, slipping, or the transmission going into a protective 'limp' mode. On Audi specifically, this code is documented across 6 models.
What causes P0700 on Audi vehicles?▼
Common causes on Audi: Stored companion transmission codes pointing to the real fault, Faulty shift solenoid or pressure control solenoid, Low, dirty, or degraded transmission fluid, Faulty transmission speed or input/output sensor, Wiring, connector, or ground problems at the transmission. Specific causes vary by model and year — see the per-model sections below.
How much does it cost to fix P0700 on a Audi?▼
Repair costs on Audi range from $300 to $10,000, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which Audi models have P0700 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P0700 on 6 Audi models: 100, A4, A4 Avant, A6, S6, TT.