P0732 on Audi
Gear 3 Incorrect Ratio
P0732 on Audi vehicles indicates gear 3 incorrect ratio. Au7o has documented this code across 4 Audi models — most commonly on 100, A4, A4 Avant. This code means the transmission control module detected that the gear ratio in 3rd gear does not match what it expects when the transmission is commanded into that gear. The computer compares input (turbine) speed to output shaft speed; if the math for 3rd gear is wrong, it sets this code. It usually points to internal slipping or a hydraulic/electronic control fault rather than a sensor reading error. Typical repair costs on Audi range from $300 to $10,000, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Common Causes of P0732
- •Low or dirty/degraded transmission fluid
- •Worn clutch packs or friction material in 3rd gear circuit
- •Faulty shift solenoid for 3rd gear
- •Valve body or pressure control problems
- •Internal mechanical wear or damage in the transmission
- •Clogged transmission filter restricting flow
- •Faulty input/output speed sensor giving skewed data
P0732 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.
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View P0732 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0732 mean on Audi?▼
P0732 stands for "Gear 3 Incorrect Ratio." This code means the transmission control module detected that the gear ratio in 3rd gear does not match what it expects when the transmission is commanded into that gear. The computer compares input (turbine) speed to output shaft speed; if the math for 3rd gear is wrong, it sets this code. It usually points to internal slipping or a hydraulic/electronic control fault rather than a sensor reading error. On Audi specifically, this code is documented across 4 models.
What causes P0732 on Audi vehicles?▼
Common causes on Audi: Low or dirty/degraded transmission fluid, Worn clutch packs or friction material in 3rd gear circuit, Faulty shift solenoid for 3rd gear, Valve body or pressure control problems, Internal mechanical wear or damage in the transmission. Specific causes vary by model and year — see the per-model sections below.
How much does it cost to fix P0732 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 P0732 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P0732 on 4 Audi models: 100, A4, A4 Avant, A6.