jmhjgh

98 A8 with 79K with no trans filter changes that I am aware of. In Minnesota, it has been below zero much of the last few weeks. My transmission is really noisy at start-up (I believe Paul mentioned a ball-bearing sound that is the pump cavitating). Now the noise is present for ~5 minutes of driving (reduced quite a bit as it heats up), but will make the noise shipping into 3,4,5 when I think the converter is locking. My tranny hunts, and I usually can't drive it in D4 because it will try and shift into 4th too soon and will hunt and then make some additional grunts when the converter locks up. I purchased an after market warranty, and I am wondering do I try a fluid/filter change at my expense or wait for something worse? I have never checked the fluid, but I have never seen any leaks either. Thanks, Jeff

skiracer

warranty would cover a tranny rebuild if it is low on fluid. The sound you are hearing is a direct result of the tranny filter being clogged, causing excessive suction side pressure drop that causes the cavitation you are hearing. I would get the filter and fluid changed as soon as possible, unless oyu are trolling for a rebuild on the warranty's nickel. At the least, verify proper fluid level.

jmhjgh

Thanks. I will try and check this week.