Compare Audi A3 auto gearbox specialist repair quotes from specialist garages

Since it was founded in 1909, Audi has been at the forefront of automotive innovation. It was the first to conduct crash tests, one of the first to use a dual-clutch gearbox, and in 1921, became the first German manufacturer to make a production car, the Audi Type K, with left-hand drive.

Impressively, Audi is also the most successful carmaker in the history of the World Car Awards, winning 11 titles since 2005 and five World Performance Car Awards as of 2022. Find out whether Audis are expensive to repair in this guide or take a look at how their maintenance costs compare with SEAT and Skoda.

Automatic gearboxes use hydraulic power to change gears. A torque converter connects the engine to the transmission and uses pressurised fluid to transfer power to the gears. Because this system is more complex, there is more scope for it to develop problems, requiring an automatic gearbox repair.

Signs of a bad automatic gearbox include:

• Gears slipping
• The car won't respond or engage while in gear
• A burning smell
• Leaking fluid
• Grinding or shaking

The best way to stave off problems is to have an automatic gearbox service done regularly. This process involves draining the transmission fluid and replacing the filter, which can extend the life of your automatic gearbox.