Torque converter clutch, checking

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Audi A4, 2004 Audi A4, 2003 Audi A4, and 2002 Audi A4. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE:

Check DTC memory of Transmission Control Module (TCM) J217 before troubleshooting.
Check also DTC memory of Engine Control Module (ECM), as DTCs of the Engine Control Module (ECM) can lead to transmission malfunctions.
Check ATF level → 37 - AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION - CONTROLS, HOUSING before troubleshooting.

Fig 1: Identifying Vehicle Diagnosis, Testing and Information System VAS 5051 and Data Link Connector (DLC)

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Torque converter clutch can only be checked when driving in On Board Diagnostics (OBD).

CAUTION:

Test and measuring equipment must always be secured to the rear seat and operated from there by a second person.
If test and measuring equipment is operated from the passenger seat, the person seated there could be injured in the event of an accident involving deployment of the passenger-side airbag.

With ignition switched off, connect Vehicle Diagnosis, Testing and Information System VAS 5051 to Data Link Connector (DLC).
Start engine.

Fig 2: Diagnostic System VAS 5051: Display

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Display on VAS 5051 :

Tap Vehicle Self-Diagnosis button.

Fig 3: Diagnostic System VAS 5051: Display

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Display on VAS 5051 :

In selection - 1 - , click on function "02 - Transmission electronics".
Wait until the next indication appears on display.

Fig 4: Diagnostic System VAS 5051: Display

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Display on VAS 5051 :

From list - 1 - select function "08 - Reading measured value block".

Fig 5: Diagnostic System VAS 5051: Display

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Display on VAS 5051 :

1 - Enter display group, max. input value = 255

In button field - 2 - , tap 7 button for "display group 007" and confirm entry by tapping Q button.
Perform a road test.

Fig 6: Diagnostic System VAS 5051: Display

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN UNITED STATES, INC.

Display on VAS 5051 :

Check indication in display fields - 3 - and - 4 -. Specified values:

3 - TC closed

4 - 0 to 20/min

If indications do not resemble description, ratio of transmission RPM to engine speed with closed torque converter clutch does not match (implausibility).

Causes:

Torque converter clutch circuit malfunctioning, worn.
Incorrect torque converter.
Automatic Transmission Pressure Regulating Valve 4 N218 mechanically malfunctioning.
Problems in ATF lines to Automatic Transmission Pressure Regulating Valve 4 N218.

Valve for torque converter pressure malfunctioning.
Torque converter clutch valve faulty.
Press ← button to end function "08 - Read measured value block".
Select "06 - End output" function.

Switch off ignition and disconnect diagnostic connector.