The robotic transmission with two dry clutches DSG 7 is one of the most common gearboxes installed on VAG cars today. On our website, we have already talked in detail about the principle of operation and the history of the emergence of DSG, today we would like to talk in detail about which cars DSG seven are installed on, or rather, compile a detailed list of brands and models, we hope that this information will be useful to you.
But first it should be said that the DSG 7 DQ200 is installed on front-wheel drive vehicles equipped with transverse petrol turbo engines. Often the volume of such engines does not exceed 1.8 liters, and the power is 180 hp. and 250 Nm of torque. This transmission model uses dual-mass dry clutches. This design solution is much more reliable than the flywheel used in the DSG-6. With the help of updated firmware, the manufacturer has reduced the maximum load on the box when the gas pedal is fully depressed. This allows you to avoid overloads and many breakdowns. If you are a fan of VAG cars, you can safely choose one of the models listed below with DSG 7 DQ200, because this transmission has all the advantages of robotic boxes, but it is devoid of many typical disadvantages of previous versions.
Types of gearboxes DSG 7
Seven-speed robotic gearboxes are available in several versions and are designed for different types of cars.
The simplest dry clutch robot is labeled DQ200. This transmission is designed for low-power powertrains. This gearbox can be found on many front-wheel drive vehicles that are used as an everyday means of transportation.
The DQ500 is a wet clutch robot. It is more reliable and withstands more intensive loads than its predecessor. Such a box can withstand torque up to 600 N * m and is used for more powerful power units. Suitable for all wheel drive vehicles.
Previous robot models are designed for machines with a transverse motor. For longitudinally mounted engines, wet clutch gearboxes of modifications DL501 and DL382 are suitable.
Separately, I want to say about the new 7-speed robot DQ381. This box is an improved version of the DSG 7, which allows you to reduce the amount of harmful emissions into the atmosphere, has a reduced coefficient of friction between parts. The manufacturer claims that it is more reliable than its predecessors, but it is too early to judge this, time will tell.
List of cars with DSG 7
SEAT
- SEAT Ibiza IV 1.2 105 HP (2008 - 2012 onwards)
- SEAT Ibiza IV 1.6 105 HP (2008 - 2012 onwards)
- SEAT Ibiza IV restyling 1.2 105 hp (2012 - 2017 onwards)
- SEAT Ibiza IV restyling 1.6 105 hp (2012 - 2017 onwards)
- SEAT Ibiza FR IV restyling 1.4 150 hp (2012 - 2017 onwards)
- SEAT Ibiza IV restyling 1.0 110 hp (2015 - 2017)
- SEAT Leon II restyling 1.8 160 hp (2009 - 2012 onwards)
- SEAT Leon III 1.2 105 HP (2013 - 2017 onwards)
- SEAT Leon III 1.4 122 HP (2013 - 2017 onwards)
- SEAT Leon III 1.4 140 HP (2013 - 2017 onwards)
- SEAT Leon III 1.8 180 HP (2013 - 2017 onwards)
- SEAT Toledo 1.4 125 HP (2012 - 2017 onwards)
- SEAT Toledo 1.6 90 HP (2012 - 2017 onwards)
Skoda
- Skoda Fabia II restyling 1.2 105 hp (2012 - 2015 onwards)
- Skoda Fabia III 1.2 110 HP (2014 - 2017)
Fabia RS
- Skoda Fabia RS II 1.4 180 HP (2010 - 2014 onwards)
- Skoda Octavia A5 1.4 122 HP (2008 - 2013 onwards)
- Skoda Octavia A5 1.8 160 HP (2008 - 2013 onwards)
- Skoda Octavia A7 1.4 150 HP (2013 - 2017 onwards)
- Skoda Octavia A7 station wagon 1.4 150 hp (2013 - 2017 onwards)
- Skoda Octavia A7 1.8 180 HP (2013 - 2017 onwards)
- Skoda Octavia A7 1.8 180 HP station wagon (2013 - 2017)
- Skoda Octavia 1.4 TSI 2019 MY
- Skoda Octavia 1.8 TSI 2019 MY
- Skoda Rapid 1.4 TSI 2019 MY
roomster
- Skoda Roomster 1.2 105 hp (2010 - 2015 onwards)
- Skoda Superb II 1.8 160 HP (2008 - 2013 onwards)
- Skoda Superb II restyling 1.8 152 hp (2013 - 2015 onwards)
- Skoda Superb II restyling station wagon 1.8 152 hp (2013 - 2015 onwards)
- Skoda Superb III 1.4 150 HP (2015 - 2017)
- Skoda Superb III 1.8 180 HP (2015 - 2017)
- Skoda Superb III station wagon 1.8 180 hp (2015 - 2017)
- Skoda Superb 2.0 TSI 2WD 2019
- Skoda Superb 2.0 TDI 2WD 2019 MY
- Skoda Superb 2.0 TDI 4WD 2019 MY
- Skoda Yeti 1.2 105 HP (2009 - 2014 onwards)
- Skoda Yeti 1.4 122 HP (2009 - 2014 onwards)
- Skoda Yeti restyling 1.4 122 hp (2014 - 2017)
Volkswagen
- Volkswagen Beetle A5 1.2 105 HP (2013 - 2017 onwards)
- Volkswagen Beetle A5 1.4 160 HP (2013 - 2017 onwards)
- Volkswagen Golf VI 1.2 105 hp (2009 - 2012 onwards)
- Volkswagen Golf VI 1.4 122 hp (2009 - 2012 onwards)
- Volkswagen Golf VI 1.6 102 hp (2009 - 2012 onwards)
- Volkswagen Golf VII 1.4 125 hp (2013 - 2017 onwards)
- Volkswagen Golf VII 1.4 150 HP (2013 - 2017 onwards)
golf plus
- Volkswagen Golf Plus II restyling 1.2 105 hp (2009 - 2014 onwards)
- Volkswagen Golf Plus II restyling 1.4 122 hp (2009 - 2014 onwards)
- Volkswagen Golf Plus II restyling 1.6 102 hp (2009 - 2014 onwards)
- Volkswagen Jetta V 1.2 105 hp (2005 - 2011 onwards)
- Volkswagen Jetta VI 1.4 122 hp (2011 - 2014 onwards)
- Volkswagen Jetta VI 1.4 50 HP (2011 - 2014 onwards)
- Volkswagen Jetta VI restyling 1.4 125 hp (2015 - 2017)
- Volkswagen Jetta VI restyling 1.4 150 hp (2015 - 2017)
- Volkswagen Passat B6 1.4 122 HP (2005 - 2011 onwards)
- Volkswagen Passat B6 1.8 152 HP (2005 - 2011 onwards)
- Volkswagen Passat B6 station wagon 1.4 122 hp (2005 - 2011 onwards)
- Volkswagen Passat B6 station wagon 1.8 152 hp (2005 - 2011 onwards)
- Volkswagen Passat B7 1.4 122 HP (2011 - 2015 onwards)
- Volkswagen Passat B7 1.4 150 HP (2011 - 2015 onwards)
- Volkswagen Passat B7 1.8 152 HP (2011 - 2015 onwards)
- Volkswagen Passat B7 1.4 station wagon 122 hp (2011 - 2015 onwards)
- Volkswagen Passat B7 1.4 station wagon 150 hp (2011 - 2015 onwards)
- Volkswagen Passat B7 1.8 station wagon 152 hp (2011 - 2015 onwards)
- Volkswagen Passat B8 1.4 125 HP (2015 - 2017)
- Volkswagen Passat B8 1.4 150 HP (2015 - 2017)
- Volkswagen Passat B8 1.8 180 HP (2015 - 2017)
- Volkswagen Passat B8 station wagon 1.4 150 hp (2015 - 2017)
- Volkswagen Passat B8 station wagon 1.8 180 hp (2015 - 2017)
- Volkswagen Passat 1.8 TDI 2018-19 MY
The new Passat, which was released in 2019, is also available with a robotic 7-speed gearbox, but these models use the new DSG-7 DQ 381, equipped with a double wet clutch.
Passat CC
- Volkswagen Passat CC 1.8 152 HP (2008 - 2011 onwards)
- Volkswagen Passat CC restyling 1.8 152 hp (2011 - 2015 onwards)
- Volkswagen Polo V 1.2 90 HP (2014 - 2017)
- Volkswagen Polo V 1.2 110 hp (2014 - 2017)
- Volkswagen Polo V 1.4 150 HP (2014 - 2017)
- (2015 - 2017)
- Volkswagen Polo 1.4 TSI 2018-19 MY
Scirocco
- Volkswagen Scirocco III 1.4 122 HP (2009 - 2015 onwards)
- Volkswagen Scirocco III 1.4 160 HP (2009 - 2015 onwards)
Whatever they say about DSG, but we can meet them on the most popular car models of different years of production. The manufacturer improves the robotic transmission, while maintaining all the advantages of this box and eliminating the typical "sores". If a few years ago many people were afraid to buy cars with a robot, today there are more and more people who want to become their owners. Time and experience of car owners prove that, subject to the rules for operating this transmission, it rarely presents unpleasant surprises.
Korean engineers also followed the German manufacturers. Already now we can meet Kia and Hyundai cars on which a seven-speed DCT robot with two clutches is installed.
A lot of myths and legends have formed around the DSG gearbox. Motorists somewhere heard about her problems, but they can’t exactly formulate them. Let's try to answer all the typical questions about it.
What is the feature of the DSG box, the principle of operation of the DSG?
The DSG is a robotic dual-clutch transmission that allows for very fast gear changes, allowing the car to accelerate quickly and efficiently. A robot is, structurally, a conventional manual transmission in which automatic transmission switches gears.
How does a regular robot or manual box work? To shift up or down, the driver (or computer) disconnects the clutch disc from the flywheel, engages the desired gear, and reattaches the disc. While the gears are being switched, torque is not transmitted from the engine to the box, and the car loses its dynamics.
In DSG, these pauses are reduced to a minimum: one clutch is responsible for an odd number of gears (1,3,5,7), and the second for an even one (2,4,6). The car starts, and an odd-numbered disk is pressed against the rotating flywheel. The even-numbered disk is open. While the car is accelerating in first, the computer gives the command to turn on the second gear to the even row, and when the moment of switching comes, the odd row disk is disconnected and the even disk is immediately turned on. Accordingly, the even row continues to work, and the odd one switches and prepares to start work.
"Wet" and "dry" versions of the DSG box are used in parallel. More durable DSG6 is able to digest high torque and is put on more powerful cars. DSG7 goes to less powerful versions. DSG under the S-Tronic brand is also installed on Audi cars. An upgraded version of the DSG7 is offered exclusively for this brand, retaining the dry clutch concept.
What is the difference between DSG6 and DSG7?
DSG is of two types. The first, in 2003, was the six-speed DSG6. The double clutch in it was "wet", that is, it worked in an oil bath. The main disadvantage of the box is significant power loss due to oil. Therefore, in 2008, Volkswagen introduced a new version - DSG7. This box uses a dry clutch. It was this box that became problematic. When choosing a car with DSG, always pay attention to what type is used there - six or seven speed. DSG6 can be taken without a doubt, but DSG7 is better left to those who are not well versed in technology.
Car models released with a problematic DSG7 box and alternatives with DSG6 and other automatic transmissions?
For convenience, we have collected all models of the Volkswagen concern in one table.
Special attention: Skoda Octavia with DSG7, VW Golf with DSG7, Audi A3 2014 with DSG7
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Year of production |
Engines with DSG7 |
Alternative |
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AUDI with DSG7 |
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1.8 (180) 6MT and DSG6 |
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1.4 (125) 6MT and DSG6 1.8 (160) 6MT and DSG6 2.0 (200) 6MT and DSG6 3.2 (250) 6MT and DSG6 |
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1.8 (120) 6MT and CVT 1.8 (170) 6MT and CVT 2.0 (225) 6MT and CVT |
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1.8 (120) 6MT and CVT 1.8 (160) 6MT and CVT 2.0 (180) 6MT and CVT 2.0d (143) 6MT and CVT 3.2 (265) 6MT, 6AT and CVT |
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1.8 (170) 6MT and CVT 2.0 (225) 6MT and CVT |
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1.8 (160) 6MT and CVT 2.0 (180) 6MT and CVT 2.0 (211) 6MT and CVT 3.2 (265) 6MT, 6AT and CVT |
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2.0 (180) 6MT and CVT 2.8 (204) 6MT and CVT |
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2.0 (211) 6MT and 8AT |
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SEAT with DSG7 |
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SKODA with DSG7 |
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2.0 (150) 6MT and 6AT 2.0d (140) 6MT and DSG6 1.8 (152) 6MT and 6AT 1.6 (102) 5MT and 6AT 1.9 (105) 5MT and 6AT 1.6 (115) 5MT and 6AT |
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1.8 (152) 6MT and 6AT 2.0d (170) 6MT and DSG6 |
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1.8 (152) 6MT and DSG6 |
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VOLKSWAGEN, VW DSG7 |
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Volkswagen Polo (hatch) |
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Volkswagen Jetta |
1.6 (105) 5MT and 6AT |
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1.9d (105) 5MT and DSG6 |
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Volkswagen Touran |
2.0d (110) 6MT and DSG6 |
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Volkswagen New Beetle |
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Volkswagen Passat |
2.0 (210) 6MT and DSG6 |
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2.0 (150) 6MT and 6AT 2.0 (200) 6MT and 6AT |
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Volkswagen Passat CC |
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Volkswagen Sharan |
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Volkswagen Scirocco |
2.0 (210) 6MT and DSG6 |
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Volkswagen Tiguan |
1.4 (150) 6MT and DSG6 |
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Volkswagen Caddy |
2.0d (140) 6MT and DSG6 |
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What malfunctions and problems are typical for DSG?
The most common is jolts when shifting gears. Clutch discs close too abruptly, causing the car to twitch. Other symptoms also occur: clanging, grinding, jolts and loss of traction in motion. The latter is especially dangerous if the car at the time of failure of traction is in the process of overtaking in the oncoming lane.
As Peter AT explained to us, the main problem with the DSG box is a dry clutch. It is subject to accelerated wear, and the root of the problem is in the incorrect algorithms of the mechatronic unit that controls the operation of the box. There are, of course, other malfunctions: occasionally the shaft bushings and the clutch release fork wear out, the contacts of the solenoids move away, dirt sticks to the sensors, antifreeze gets into the oil ... But these cases are exotic.
The main thing you need to know: if you still bought a post-warranty car with a DSG7, and the box shows symptoms of a malfunction, this is not a reason to change it as an assembly. The gearbox itself, that is, a set of gears, almost never fails. The box can be repaired, which will cost an order of magnitude cheaper than replacing. True, spare parts will have to wait for several weeks - the demand for them is still small, and the sellers of spare parts do not have stocks.
What is the manufacturer's warranty for the DSG box, free DSG repair and replacement?
Perhaps, in this case, it would be logical to quote verbatim a letter from Volkswagen Group Rus to the heads of dealer service departments. “We are hereby informing you about the current rules for handling customer complaints regarding possible malfunctions in the operation of the DSG7 gearbox. VOLKSWAGEN Group Rus LLC, meeting the wishes of customers, in order to maintain confidence in the cars of the concern, as part of an additional obligation, provides customer support in case of revealing a factory defect in the operation of the DSG 7 gearbox until the expiration of 5 (five) years or until reaching 150,000 km of run (whichever comes first) from the time the vehicle was handed over to the first purchaser. Support is provided in the form of elimination of deficiencies free of charge for the client by repairing or replacing individual components of the gearbox or the complete unit.
Sometimes dealers try to refuse warranty repairs to customers, referring to the fact that they underwent maintenance at unauthorized stations. By law, this cannot be a reason for refusal.
If you have a car that is under 5 years old and has less than 150,000 kilometers on it, and the dealer refuses to repair the DSG7 free of charge, complain directly to the Volkswagen hotline.
Also, do not succumb to the persuasion of dealers to undergo some kind of scheduled DSG maintenance. The fact is that this is a maintenance-free box, and scheduled maintenance is a way to make money on narrow-minded customers.
Is it true that Volkswagen has eliminated all problems with the DSG box?
The fact that engineers are working on upgrading the DSG is a fact. The software and details of the clutch assembly are being improved. However, it is impossible to reliably say that the problem of accelerated wear has been solved. The problem is that the Volkswagen concern prefers to pursue a closed policy, and publishes official information about how the box is being finalized. And although the 5-year warranty on the DSG is no longer covered since 2014, there is no reason to say that the reliability problem has been solved.
Why continue to produce cars with DSG7?
The official position of the company is as follows: the box provides excellent acceleration dynamics and economy. Questions about reliability are simply ignored by the Germans. Further, we can only assume that the reason lies in the usual business calculation. The development of a gearbox costs billions of euros, and it cannot be abandoned just like that. Obviously, Volkswagen felt that it was easier to spend money on warranty repairs and spread rumors about the increased reliability of the DSG7 than urgently transfer all their cars to DSG6, “automatic”.
What should a simple motorist who wants to buy a Volkswagen, Skoda or Audi do in this situation?
Choose a modification equipped with any other box, except for DSG7. True, unfortunately, Golf is offered today only with it, or with mechanics. Skoda Octavia has modifications with DSG6, though only diesel ones. Polo sedan and Tiguan have versions with a traditional 6-speed automatic. In general, there is a choice, although it is narrowing.
Why not buy a car with DSG7?
Firstly, because despite all the positive qualities of the box, it makes no sense to play the lottery and hope that you will get a car that will not twitch when shifting gears and in which the box will not “get up” after 50 thousand mileage.
Secondly, because cars with DSG7 do not sell well in the secondary market. People who buy used cars tend to be more technically aware, on average, than new car aficionados from the showroom. Most of them are well aware of the problems with the seven-speed robot, and they rightly do not want to mess with them. Of course, you can always return the car in trade-in, but with a very big discount, since the salon managers are also in the know.
In any case, the owner of a car with a DSG7 will face problems and financial losses. Whether they are worth the pleasure of driving a Volkswagen, Skoda or Audi, everyone decides for himself.
When will the DSG7 be discontinued?
Volkswagen doesn't talk about it. There are fears that the box will live on the conveyor for a long time, since the DSG6 has been used since 2003. There are also examples of the long life of frankly unsuccessful nodes. For example, the French 4-speed automatic DP0 and its numerous derivatives: DP1, DP2, AL4, which do not tolerate overheating and are distinguished by a rare "dullness" in motion. It has been used with various modifications since the early 90s, and is still being installed on Renault Sandero, Duster, Nissan Almera and even on the relatively expensive Peugeot 408.
Unfortunately for motorists, now manufacturers generally care very little about the reliability of cars. The main vector of their development now is ecology. In order to save one hundred grams of gasoline per 100 kilometers, various dubious technologies are being introduced, often reducing the overall life of the car, such as direct injection, increasing turbocharging pressure or compression ratio in the cylinders.
Gearboxes are a relatively dead end branch of development, and DSG, paradoxically, is now at the top of progress, as it provides efficiency (and therefore the desired environmental friendliness). The fact that the unit "lives" an average of 150 thousand kilometers is of little interest to anyone. Manufacturers are generally not interested in the existence of a secondary market - they dream of people buying only new cars, and throwing old ones into the trash.
Therefore, sadly, but with DSG7 we have every chance to live another 5-10 years without any changes. And everyone will continue to pretend that this is how it should be.
Nowadays, you can find vehicles of various designs, and not all of their mechanisms are distinguished by flawless operation. This article will focus on a rather unusual, robotic gearbox - DSG 7. Anyone who has already encountered it or is simply interested in various innovations in the automotive world will certainly be interested in receiving additional information regarding this issue.
1. What is a DSG gearbox
The abbreviation "DSG" stands for Direct Schalt Getrieb and literally means "direct shift box". In fact, this is only one of many types of preselective robotic gearboxes equipped with two clutches. In fact, the “robot” is the same, only the control in it is automated.
When it is required to change gear, the on-board computer sends a special “command” to the actuators, and they disconnect the clutch disc from the master, thereby breaking the connection between the power unit and the box. As a result, after the movement of the shafts with gears, the disks are connected back, and the process of transmitting torque is resumed.
It should be noted that the computer does not always cope with this task quickly, and in most cases it takes more time than the driver would need. Therefore, if you are a fan of dynamic driving, then it is better to buy a vehicle with a conventional manual transmission.
However, the dual clutch box is somewhat different from the typical "robots". It was invented by the French engineer A. Kegresse, who until the First World War worked in the personal garage of Nicholas II. By the way, it was he who invented the caterpillar-wheel engine for the royal Packard.
True, at the end of the 30s, when the principle of operation of the double clutch was described in detail by Kegresse, existing technologies did not yet allow the construction of a prototype, and this possibility was safely forgotten until the beginning of the 80s. The “novelty” was tested on Ford cars (model Fiesta and Ranger) and Peugeot 205, after which it was put on racing Audi and Porsche.
2. What is the difference between DSG 6 and DSG 7
There are two types of DSG direct shift gearboxes - DSG 6 and DSG 7. The six-speed DSG 6 was the first to appear in 2003, in which the dual clutch worked in an oil bath (“wet” version). Such a large amount of oil turned out to be a significant problem, because it was because of it that the engine lost its power. This nuance was the impetus for the creation of a more advanced version of the gearbox, which is the DSG 7, introduced by Volkswagen in 2008.
This design has reduced the amount of gear oil used, as it is now only used for lubrication and not for cooling the clutch. As a result, efficiency increases and fuel consumption decreases. However, the use of a dry clutch led to other problems, which we will talk about a little later. In general, the only thing that distinguishes the 7th model from the 6th (apart from the difference in the amount of oil) is the presence of 7th gear.
The DSG-7 gearbox is installed on middle-class cars that are not so demanding in terms of speed and are more designed for a quiet and calm ride.
3. Classic DSG 7 problems
There are many problems that you may encounter when using the classic dry DSG 7 gearbox. Some of the most common options include:
1. The appearance of machine vibration when shifting gears from first to second and vice versa. Cause: Clutch discs close too hard and it feels like you're dropping the clutch (remember this moment when driving a car with a manual transmission). In this case, an error occurs in the mechatronics unit and is eliminated by flashing or replacing it.
2.
The occurrence of vibrations in 2nd gear when moving at low speeds. Here the source of the problem should be sought in the absence of a torsional vibration damper on the second clutch. Volkswagen AG engineers decided that it would be enough to install a damper on the first clutch, because it is the most loaded. In addition, the area of its clutch is larger than the area of the clutch of the second clutch.
After LUK (which was responsible for the creation of the DSG-7) nevertheless released a clutch with a modified clutch material, the vibrations did decrease somewhat, but still did not completely disappear. VAG specialists are trying to fix this problem through software updates, but one mechatronics specialist will not be able to solve the “disease” of the entire structure. Simply put, rattling will accompany the work of the DSG-7 until the next box model is released.
3. Knocking in the gearbox when driving at low speeds is another common problem with this type of gearbox. The official explanation for this problem is based on the fact that the gearbox contains a large number of tightly packed parts, and under certain conditions, due to heavily loaded parts and gears, vibration may occur. Given that the amount of transmission fluid in this model is not very large, the transmission of sounds from the gearbox to the outside is more intense.
True, the appearance of such noise only affects the personal comfort of the driver and passengers, without affecting the performance of the gearbox and its resource. This "inconvenience" is not even considered a defect, because of which the employees of specialized workshops will not be able to help you. Therefore, before buying a vehicle with a DSG 7 gearbox, decide whether you can “survive” this noise or not.
4.
Jolts at the beginning of the movement and when switching to the modes "D", "S", "M". In this case, the set of reasons for this behavior of the machine is quite extensive. For example, a malfunction can be hidden both in the clutch unit and in mechatronics or in the engine-gearbox assembly. Be that as it may, it is better to check the vehicle for which such a malfunction was noticed in a car service.
5. Breakdown of mechatronics can also have a variety of reasons. However, most often the culprit is the software version and the mode of operation of the car. Earlier models were much more likely to suffer from mechatronics failures caused by software errors.
Today, most of the problems have been eliminated with the help of constant updating of the "brains", as a result of which the electronics began to behave more obediently, although they are still not immune from operational errors. For example, a hard start with the brake pressed can easily lead to a complete breakdown of the box with a “dry” clutch.
As you can see, all of these problems lie in the complex design of the DSG 7 gearbox. It turns out that the specialists of the Volkswagen AG concern sought to create the perfect gearbox, and now they are paying for mistakes with annual transmission upgrades.
4. Car models with a problematic DSG 7 box
A fairly large number of cars loved by everyone were produced with a problematic DSG 7 gearbox. One has only to recall the Škoda Octavia, VW Golf or Audi A3 of 2014. However, this is still far from all contenders for the appearance of the above problems. Delving into the essence of the issue, one cannot help but recall other cars that were “lucky” to become owners of this gearbox.
Among the vehicles of the brand Audi models stand out in this respect. TT (2010-2014), A1 (2010-2014), A3 (2008-2014), A4 (2007-2014), S4 (2008-2014) .), A5 (2007-2014), A6 (2011-2014), A7 (2010-2014), Q5 (2008-2014) and R8 (2012 -2014 onwards). Concern SEAT installed DSG 7 on the model Ibiza (2008-2014), León (2005-2014) and Altea (2009-2014).
The creators of some models did not differ either SKODA. In particular, the DSG 7 operates on Škoda Octavia (2004-2014), Škoda Superb (2008-2014) and Škoda Yeti (2009-2014). However, most of these boxes are installed on the products of the concern. VOLKSWAGEN:Polo (hatchback 2009-2014), Golf (2009-2014), Jetta (2005-2014), Touran (2010-2014), New Beetle (2013- 2014 MY), Passat (2005-2014 MY), Passat CC (2008-2014 MY), Sharan (2010-2014 MY), Scirocco (2009-2014 MY) ), Tiguan (2011-2014), Caddy (2010-2014).
Of course, for each specific model, you can choose your own solution to the problems of the DSG 7 gearbox, but sometimes it’s easier to just replace it with a more suitable, alternative gearbox option. For example, for a Škoda Octavia with a volume of 1.4 liters, 1.4 (140) 6MT is well suited, and for an Audi A3 (volume of 1.8 liters), if necessary, you can pick up 2.0 (143) DSG6.
Despite the possible disadvantages, many of the listed car models have been successfully operated for more than one year, and problems with the gearbox do not bother their owners. It is likely that, in your case, you will not have to figure out how to solve the above problems for a long time, but, nevertheless, it is better to know about this possibility in advance. Naturally, before buying a car with this system, it is worth weighing all the pros and cons well, and it is better to additionally consult with a knowledgeable person.
What is DSG? The German abbreviation DSG stands for Direct Engagement Gearbox (Direkt Schalt Getriebe). Often it is called "preselective", that is, able to keep ready gears for the next shift.
The idea of creating such a checkpoint belongs to the French inventor Adolf Kegress. In the 30s of the last century, an automotive engineer collaborated with Citroen. He proposed to put a unit with two clutches and hydromechanical control on the front-wheel drive Citroen Traction Avant. The new transmission was not widely used due to its complex design.
The technical consultant of Volkswagen Favorit Hoff Maxim Ponomarenko spoke about the advantages and features of the box.
How the DSG works
The fundamental difference between a preselective automatic transmission and others is in two clutches that quickly change gears. In a “mechanics” or robotic gear change, the clutch disc is disconnected from the flywheel, the driver or robotic computer selects the desired “speed”, and after that the disc snaps into place. During this time, the torque is not transmitted to the box and the car loses its dynamics.
The DSG system eliminates power dips. At the heart of the box is the work of two shafts located coaxially: the first is hollow, and the second is inside it. The engine is connected to each of them through its own, separate multi-plate clutch - also external and internal. On the primary, that is, the outer shaft, gears of even gears (2-, 4-, 6th) are fixed, on the inner - odd - 1-, 3-, 5th and reverse gear.
When the car starts, the odd-numbered disk is pressed against the rotating flywheel, and the even-numbered "speeds" disk is open. During acceleration, the computing unit of the box gives the command to prepare the second gear, so that at the moment it is turned on, disconnect the odd-numbered disk and immediately put the even-numbered disk into operation. Tuned shift control ensures no loss of torque.
The DSG 6 robotic gearbox entered the Volkswagen conveyor in 2003. The double clutch on it worked in an oil bath, being called "wet". Oil in such a box takes away part of the power, increasing fuel consumption. In 2008, the German automaker introduced a seven-speed DSG 7 with a dry clutch.
Advantages of DSG
- The DSG box, due to the optimal modes of switching on the necessary “speeds”, reduces fuel consumption. Cars with it consume about 10% less fuel than cars with a conventional gearbox.
- A distinctive feature of all such transmissions is dynamic acceleration. To shift gear up, the box needs only 8 ms, it does not have the effect of rubber traction as on hydromechanical automatic transmissions.
- You can drive the DSG in manual mode, that is, shift gears manually.
- Such an automatic transmission is 20% lighter than a similar hydromechanical transmission.
Disadvantages of DSG
- The cost of an automatic transmission affects the price of a car, significantly increasing it.
- Expensive oil change (on a six-speed box) every 60 thousand kilometers. The total volume is 6.5 liters.
The preselective box is installed on different models and brands united under the name of the Volkswagen auto concern: Audi TT (A1, A3, A4, S4, A5, A7, A6, Q5, R8), SEAT Ibiza (León, Altea), Škoda Octavia (Superb, Yeti), Volkswagen Polo (Golf, Jetta, Touran, New Beetle, Passat, Passat CC, Sharan, Scirocco, Caddy).
Extended DSG Warranty
Among many car owners, the dubious fame of a box with two clutches has entrenched. The very name DSG has become a symbol of an unreliable design with costly repairs. In fact, Volkswagen has long taken control of the situation. An important step towards quality control is a large-scale service campaign.
The concern gives an extended warranty for seven-speed gearboxes manufactured before January 1, 2014. According to representatives of the automaker, the designated period corresponds to the appearance on the conveyor of a modernized transmission without the typical problems of the previous generation. Special service conditions are limited to 150,000 miles or 5 years of age of the movement. The service action includes the replacement of synthetic oil with mineral oil - less aggressive towards electronic components. At the same time, the firmware of the automatic transmission control unit is updated. Detected malfunctions are eliminated free of charge - this applies to repair, replacement of individual elements or transmission as an assembly.
In any case, the abbreviations DSG should not be afraid: with the proper level of service, it will not let you down, and in terms of the number of advantages, the “smart robot” outperforms the classic automatic transmission. And the DSG box will require less money for repairs compared to the usual "automatic".
What malfunctions are typical for DSG?
The most common problem is jolts when changing gear that accompanies movement. The clutch discs close too sharply and the car jerks. The second known drawback is vibration at start-up, clanging, grinding and other extraneous noises during gear changes.
The main reason for the incorrect operation of the seven-speed transmission is its "dry" clutch. It wears out quickly due to harsh operating conditions in dense city traffic, with congestion at low speeds. Therefore, the question "how to operate the DSG?" there is one obvious answer - to avoid the "gas-brake" mode, because the main enemy of the robot is the cork.
Among other problems: wear on the shaft bushings, clutch release forks, broken solenoid contacts, dirt on the sensors and oil in antifreeze.
How to determine a DSG malfunction when buying a used car?
- Individual gears do not turn on - the box "jumps" them.
- Gear shifting is accompanied by shocks - the box "kicks".
- There is a hum when driving.
- The car vibrates on start up.
- Inspection on the lift shows that oil is leaking from the box.
If there is a suspicion of incorrect operation of the box, it is worth ordering an additional check, or postponing this option.
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Find out what kind of DSG gearbox it is, its advantages and disadvantages, the scheme and principle of operation. What cars are equipped with DSG. Description of the ECT system. Video.
DSG (full name "Direct Shift Gearbox" - direct shift gearbox) is a mechanical 6 or 7-speed gearbox. She has an automatic drive to select gears and two clutches. The peculiarity of such a box is that its connection to the motor occurs through two clutches. They are aligned.
The principle of operation of the DSG gearbox
In this case, the following gears function through one clutch: reverse and odd. Through another clutch - even ones work. Thanks to this device, a smooth transition is made between the steps. This is similar to the synchronous operation of the clutches of the nearby gears operating in mechanical "automatic machines".
While acceleration is still taking place in first gear, the second stage gear is already engaged, despite the fact that it is still spinning idle. The computer determines the moment of switching. At this point, the DSG hydraulic lines simultaneously release the first clutch and completely close the second. The torque that comes from the engine is transferred from first gear to second. The process continues in the same way until the last sixth step. After that, the opposite happens. When the sixth gear is engaged, the fifth gear begins to rotate simultaneously with it.
Video about the principle of operation:
Scheme "DSG"
- Flywheel dual-mass;
- Friction clutch No. 1;
- Friction clutch No. 2;
- Main gear driven gear;
- Driven gear of the second stage;
- Primary shaft of the second row;
- 4th gear driven gear;
- 3rd gear driven gear;
- Driven gear of the first gear;
- Secondary shaft No. 1;
- Oil pump shaft;
- Oil pump;
- Secondary shaft No. 2;
- 5th speed driven gear;
- Driven gear of the sixth gear;
- reverse gear axle;
- reverse gear;
- Primary shaft of the first row;
- Double clutch;
Advantages of DSG
In the event of a drop in engine speed, consider how the DSG box is used. The result is a permanent connection between the engine and the transmission, while the gears are shifted without interrupting the power flow. This device needs only 8 milliseconds to complete the speed change.
The advantages of this box are also in the reduction of acceleration time and fuel economy. And this is important today. More importantly, when operating the DSG, shifts are not noticed and the illusion arises that the ride is constantly in one gear. There are only two pedals in the cabin - brake, gas. This is enough. The transmission selector is the same as for automatic transmissions. If you suddenly don’t like it, then there is always the opportunity to use the manual mode, in which the gearbox lever is moved up or down.
Disadvantages of DSG (its problems):
- The cost of a car with this PP system increases significantly due to the technical complexity of the equipment itself.
- According to the reviews of some car owners, small jerks of the car can be noted when picking up speed and when shifting gears.
- There are slight delays during hard acceleration - the gearbox does not have time to immediately jump over the gear. For example: You are driving in 4th gear and suddenly decided to pick up speed sharply, respectively, the box needs to jump through the fifth to the sixth gear, but it is already set for a smooth transition to the 5th gear, as a result there is a delay.
- Control units (mechatronics) wear out quickly and require premature repair.
What is "ECT"?
There is an innovation in the latest models of automatic transmissions. They are equipped with ECT (an electronic system with which you can control gear shifting). This system makes it possible to smoothly shift gears along with taking into account the speed of the machine, engine temperature and throttle opening.
Thanks to this, the life of the engine, as well as the transmission, is significantly increased. Depending on the taste of the car owner, you can choose different switching schemes: sports, economical or winter. For example, when using the sport mode, each gear is engaged a little later. As a result, the development of high engine power and its faster acceleration is possible. This is convenient when you need to merge into a stream of cars that is moving fast. However, this also increases fuel consumption. Therefore, the final choice always remains with the driver.
To date, the DSG gearbox with 6 feet (DQ250 - wet clutch) is actively used on cars of the brand:
- Volkswagen (Golf, Passat, Sharan, Eos, Touran, Beetle Beetle, Bora, Tiguan);
- Audi (A3, Q3, TT);
- Skoda (Superb, Octavia);
- Seat (Toledo, Alhambra).
7-speed DSG gearbox (DQ200 - dry clutch "without lubrication"):
- Volkswagen (Golf, Passat, Sharan, Transporter, Caddy, Jetta, Touran, Beetle Beetle, Bora, Tiguan);
- Audi (A3, Q3, TT);
- Skoda (Fabia, Superb, Octavia);
- Seat (Ibiza, Leon, Altea).
DSG for cars with a longitudinal engine is equipped with a 7-speed gearbox, - only in Audi cars (A4, A5, A6 A7 and Q5) with 4-wheel drive (full). Its factory name is DL501. It can deliver torque up to 600 Nm.
Video: "By hook or by crook", how DSG works