Shift/Gear Indicator

BlueMax · Jan 3, 2007

Recently I took my 2000 VW 1.8 Turbo to get it inspected prior to registration. It failed due to the following: When the car is put into Drive or 3rd gear, the check engine light comes on and generates a code stating there is a problem with the powertrain. Also, if it is put into Drive or 3rd gear, the gear/shift indicator shows as black blocks instead of the actual gear. When in Drive or 3rd gear, it won't go into overdrive...they are basically the same gears. It also won't start in Neutral. Any info would be appreciated. I've taken it to VW and they are basically incompitent. I'm also a 45+ year euro-mechanic but I'm not too familiar with the new bug.

NYBugman · Jan 3, 2007

You're in 3rd gear limp mode. Basically, the trans is trying to protect itself from damage. As to what the problem is, try to find out the specific code the car is throwing.

With the trans, it can be anything, so just saying that the code is for the powertrain leaves dozens of codes that can be the one.

There are 2 things you can try for now:

1) reset the transmission.

Get in the car and turn the car on, but do not start the car. Floor the gas pedal for 20 seconds. After 20 seconds, take your foot off the gas and shut the car off. Wait a minute and then see what happens.

2) reset the ECU/electrical system.

Disconnect the battery for 30 minutes. Cone back after 30 minutes and reconnect.

BlueMax · Jan 3, 2007

Thanks for the quick response! Here is the code I'm getting:
P0705

Thanks again and I'll try resetting the transmission and post again afterwards.

NYBugman · Jan 4, 2007

According to the Bentley Manual...

17089
P0705
Transm.Range Sensor Circ.(PRNDL Inp.) Malfunction

I would say that something in your shifter is malfunctioning and confusing the trans computer as to what gear it is in. Hopefully I am right and it's just an electrical issue and nothing internal, which I don't think it is.

Shift/Gear Indicator

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