What Is a DSG Gearbox?

A Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG) is a type of dual-clutch gearbox that works very differently from a conventional automatic, though it’s unlikely you’d notice the difference when driving. It is used by manufacturers in the Volkswagen Group, including Skoda and Audi.

This guide explains everything you need to know about DSG gearboxes.

How does a DSG gearbox work?

A DSG gearbox is essentially two gearboxes in one, connected to the engine by two drive shafts. It doesn’t use a torque converter, unlike conventional automatic gearboxes. Instead, it uses a pair of electronically controlled clutches that the car can engage or disengage automatically. One clutch transmits the engine’s power to the wheels, and the other prepares the next gear. 

DSGs are mechatronic, meaning they combine electronic and mechanical components. The electronic parts include several sensors that monitor the rotation speed of gearbox components. This information is used by the car’s computer (ECU) to determine how and when gear shifts happen.

The clever part is that the DSG system predicts the next gear you’ll need and prepares it in advance, preventing lag. When the time is right, the ECU makes the gearbox disengage one clutch and engage the other, delivering a smooth gear shift.

DSG vs a conventional automatic

In a conventional automatic car, the power from the engine is transferred to the gearbox using a torque converter, allowing the engine to run even as the wheels come to a stop. In a manual vehicle, the same process happens using a clutch.

Find out how a clutch works in this guide.

The difference between a DSG and a regular automatic is that the DSG doesn’t use a torque converter but instead features two electronically controlled clutches. Because the ECU can predict the next gear and set it up in advance, gear changes are smoother and faster, taking less than four hundredths of a second.

The advantages and disadvantages of a DSG gearbox

Advantages

• DSGs often result in lower fuel consumption than conventional automatic systems.

• Shift times are often much faster because gears can be pre-selected.

• There’s no need to manually operate the clutches, making driving easier.

• Six and seven-speed variants have proven to be reliable.

Disadvantages

• DSGs are complex and often expensive to repair when they fail.

• Cars offered with a DSG gearbox are usually more expensive than their manual counterparts.

• DSGs can’t know for sure which gear you’ll need next, leading to hesitation in unpredictable situations on the road.

How to drive a DSG gearbox car

Driving a car with a DSG gearbox is the same as driving any automatic vehicle. Here’s how to do it:

• Keep the brake pedal pressed down and switch the car on.

• Put the gear selector into ‘D’ while keeping your foot on the brake.

• Release the handbrake.

• The car will start moving when you lift your foot off the brake.

After that, all you have to focus on is the throttle and the brake. The throttle, also known as the accelerator, controls the speed of the car. When you come to a complete stop, holding your foot down on the brake pedal will stop the vehicle from creeping forward. 

When you’re ready to park, press the brake and choose ‘P’ with the gear selector. Put the handbrake on to stop the car from rolling.

Many DSG cars also allow you to change gears manually if you want to, without the need to operate a clutch pedal. Paddles on the back of the steering wheel marked ‘+’ and ‘-’ allow you to shift up and down. The paddle that will enable you to change down a gear (‘-’) is always on the left, and the paddle for changing up (‘+’) is on the right.

Additionally, some models let you change gear using the selector.

Which cars have a DSG gearbox?

DSG gearboxes are used by members of the Volkswagen Group, including Volkswagen, Skoda, SEAT, Lamborghini and Bentley.

Porsche also uses DSGs under the acronym PDK (Porsche-Doppelkupplungsgetriebe). BMW calls them DCTs, and they are known as Powershift gearboxes on Ford models. Many cars from these brands are available with a DSG gearbox.

Which DSG gearbox do I have?

You can find information about the type of gearbox your car uses by checking your owner’s manual.

Are DSG gearboxes reliable?

DSG gearboxes were launched in 2003 and initially suffered from poor reliability, with many drivers facing expensive repair bills. 

However, those early versions (the DQ250 six-speed and the DQ200 seven-speed) have either been replaced or improved. The introduction of 40,000-mile fluid change intervals and changes in the spec of the transmission fluid ironed out many of the problems faced by earlier DSGs. 

Today’s DSGs are much more reliable - especially the wet-clutch variants - and rarely see any problems if the correct maintenance schedule is followed.

Common DSG gearbox problems

DSG gearboxes can suffer from the following issues:

• Prematurely worn-out clutch kit

• Burnt out electronic control unit 

• Clogged solenoids

• Jerky during operation

• Malfunctioning mechatronic unit

• Failure of selector forks

• Overheating transmission due to a clogged heat exchanger

What is a DSG gearbox service?

A DSG gearbox service is a vital part of maintenance that should be carried out every 40,000 miles without fail on most cars. It involves thoroughly inspecting the gearbox system to check for any problems or leaks and replacing the oil and filter. 

Failure to replace a DSG’s transmission fluid at the correct intervals will severely impact its lifespan. It's likely to result in costly repairs, so you should check your owner’s manual and follow the advice for your model.

The average price of a DSG oil service is £285.04, according to FixMyCar’s data.

Frequently asked questions

Is a car with a DSG gearbox easier to drive than a manual version?

In theory, DSGs make life easier because you don’t have to worry about manually changing gears. You can let the car’s computer do it for you.

What’s the difference between a DSG gearbox and other automatic gearboxes?

DSGs don’t use torque converters. Instead, they rely on a two-clutch mechatronic system.

Is DSG better than automatic?

DSG gearboxes offer faster and smoother gear changes in many situations than conventional automatics. However, they are a more expensive option, and when they fail, repairs are costly. 

Does a DSG gearbox use more fuel than other gearboxes?

DSGs are less efficient than their manual counterparts but more efficient than conventional automatic systems that use a torque converter.

Looking for affordable car repairs or maintenance? Whatever you need, FixMyCar can help you find the right garage at the right price.

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• How to get the best fuel efficiency from a car

• How often should I get my car serviced?

• What is the ECU in a car?