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P176DModerateTransmission

P176D: Intermediate Speed Sensor Circuit High Voltage

2 vehicles · 1 makes · $600-$4,500 repair

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Most Reported On

2017-2025Volkswagen Golf RMK7.5 R (DSG), MK8 R (DSG)2019-2023Volkswagen Arteon2.0 TSI +4

P176D is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code meaning “Intermediate Speed Sensor Circuit High Voltage.” P176D is a manufacturer-specific powertrain code; its most common definition (GM and the major code databases) is "Intermediate Speed Sensor Circuit High Voltage," meaning the transmission control module detected a higher-than-expected voltage on the intermediate/input shaft speed sensor circuit. The sensor reports rotational speed inside the transmission so the TCM can select the correct gear, so a faulty signal can affect shift quality. Note the meaning varies by brand — on VW/Audi it relates to gear selector 4 not being regulated, and on some Jeep/Chrysler applications it indicates transmission fluid temperature too high — so confirm against the specific vehicle. This code is most commonly reported on 2017-2025 Volkswagen Golf R (MK7.5 R (DSG), MK8 R (DSG)), and 2019-2023 Volkswagen Arteon (2.0 TSI, 2.0 TDI, R, SEL, SEL Premium R-Line), with repair costs ranging from $600 to $4,500.

On This Page

  • Common Causes
  • Repair Cost
  • Vehicles (2)
  • Related Codes
  • FAQ
  • Sources (5)
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Common Causes

1Faulty or failing intermediate/transmission speed sensor
2Damaged, corroded, or loose sensor connector or wiring (open or short to voltage)
3Chafed harness or short to a power circuit raising signal voltage
4Poor ground or high resistance in the sensor circuit
5Internal transmission/valve body or selector solenoid fault (brand-dependent)
6Faulty transmission control module (TCM) or software fault

Typical Repair Cost

$600 - $4,500

Based on 2 documented vehicle-specific issues. Actual cost depends on root cause and vehicle.

Diagnostic Tools

To diagnose P176D, you'll need an OBD-II scanner. Here are our recommendations at every price point.

Budget Pick$10–$20

ANCEL AD310 Classic OBD-II Scanner

by ANCEL

A simple, affordable code reader that reads and clears check engine codes. Great for quick diagnostics on any OBD-II vehicle (1996+).

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  • I/M readiness status
  • No batteries or app needed
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Best Value$90–$120

BlueDriver Pro Bluetooth Scanner

by BlueDriver

Bluetooth OBD-II scanner with a free companion app. Provides enhanced diagnostics, smog readiness, and repair reports sourced from a database of verified fixes.

  • Enhanced diagnostics (ABS, SRS, transmission)
  • Repair Reports with verified fixes
  • Smog check readiness
  • Free app (iOS & Android)
Check Price on Amazon
Advanced$180–$230

LAUNCH CRP123X OBD-II Scanner

by LAUNCH

A professional-grade handheld scanner that reads all four major systems (engine, transmission, ABS, SRS) with live data streaming and graphing.

  • Engine, transmission, ABS, SRS diagnostics
  • Live data stream & graphing
  • AutoVIN for vehicle identification
  • Free lifetime updates via Wi-Fi
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Professional$350–$450

Autel MaxiCOM MK808S Diagnostic Tool

by Autel

Shop-level diagnostic tablet with bi-directional control, active tests, and full system coverage. Ideal for serious DIYers and small shops.

  • All-system diagnostics (25+ modules)
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  • Oil reset, EPB, BMS, TPMS, injector coding
  • 7-inch touchscreen with Android OS
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Vehicles Affected (2)

Volkswagen P176D page →
Golf RCritical

DQ381 7-Speed DSG Mechatronic Failure and Limp Mode

2017-2025$600-$4,5000 reports
ArteonCritical

7-Speed DQ381 DSG Mechatronics Failure and Low-Speed Shudder

2019-2023$1,000-$4,5000 reports

Related Codes (8)

P1760Manufacturer-Specific Code (Transmission Pressure-Control Solenoid; definition varies by maker)P1765Transmission 12-Volt Supply Relay Control CircuitP176AGear Selector 1 Cannot Be RegulatedP176BManufacturer-Specific Transmission/Powertrain Fault17125Torque Converter Clutch Circuit: Performance or Stuck OffC0700Transmission Control Module CommunicationP0218Transmission Over Temperature ConditionP0500Vehicle Speed Sensor Malfunction

FAQ

What does P176D mean?

P176D stands for "Intermediate Speed Sensor Circuit High Voltage." P176D is a manufacturer-specific powertrain code; its most common definition (GM and the major code databases) is "Intermediate Speed Sensor Circuit High Voltage," meaning the transmission control module detected a higher-than-expected voltage on the intermediate/input shaft speed sensor circuit. The sensor reports rotational speed inside the transmission so the TCM can select the correct gear, so a faulty signal can affect shift quality. Note the meaning varies by brand — on VW/Audi it relates to gear selector 4 not being regulated, and on some Jeep/Chrysler applications it indicates transmission fluid temperature too high — so confirm against the specific vehicle.

What are the most common causes of P176D?

The most common causes of P176D are: Faulty or failing intermediate/transmission speed sensor, Damaged, corroded, or loose sensor connector or wiring (open or short to voltage), Chafed harness or short to a power circuit raising signal voltage, Poor ground or high resistance in the sensor circuit, Internal transmission/valve body or selector solenoid fault (brand-dependent), Faulty transmission control module (TCM) or software fault. The specific cause varies by vehicle.

How much does it cost to fix P176D?

Repair costs for P176D range from $600 to $4,500, depending on the vehicle and root cause.

Which vehicles are affected by P176D?

Au7o has documented P176D across 2 vehicle models from 1 manufacturers: Volkswagen.

Sources (5)

  • articleVW/Audi 0GC DQ381 DSG Mechatronic Failures — Symptoms, Fault Codes & Fixes (eco-torque)
  • ForumDQ381 mechatronics issues — VW R Owners Club (VWROC)
  • ForumDQ381 P060700 Error Transmission — VWROC
  • ForumDSG Getriebeprobleme ARTEON - MOTOR-TALK
  • Forum2018 Arteon DSG Gearbox malfunction problem - UK Volkswagen Forum

Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.

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