05 Audi A4 6 Speed Manual Transmission Reverse Light Switch

Just got back from my 2nd visit to the dealer. Many addendums to my first post.
1. If you push down the stick, slide it all the way to the left until it stops, then slide it up, the car goes into reverse 100% of the time. If you are a little lazy and don't slide ALL the way to the left, but stop a little before, the car will not go into reverse. I showed this to the tech and he said it was normal.
2. Being skeptical, I had him open another '04 TDI and I tried it on that transmission. Same problem. So it really isn't a 'problem,' i.e. something is wrong with the tranny, but an 'issue' where the transmission is picky about how you get it in gear.
3. The tech said that the '03 and '04s have a new transmission that is *insert tech speak here* and acts a little different from previous models. He said it might become easier to shift slopilly as the car breaks in.
4. There is a service bulletin with the reverse-light switch. Basically some cars do not turn on the reverse lights when you put them into reverse gear, and the car is smart enough to not let you go into reverse gear if this switch isn't working right. This is a repair they can do in 10 minutes under warantee.
-Ben

05 Audi A4 6 Speed Manual Transmission Reverse Light Switch Location

Reverse light switch for the transmission. This switch is engaged when the transmission is put into reverse and turns on the back up lights. This swtich can easily get damaged during a clutch replacement. When faulty the backup lights will not illuminate ever. 5-speed manual transmissions only. This switch is for model year 2000 and later. Dec 10, 2017 Audi Service Manuals: $35/24hr access (download as much as you want). VW A4: 2.0L timing belt removal (with commentary). Reverse Light switch - testing and wiring - Duration: 6.

Audi A4 owners have reported 6 problems related to manual transmission (under the power train category). The most recently reported issues are listed below. Also please check out the statistics and reliability analysis of Audi A4 based on all problems reported for the A4.

Manual Transmission problem of the 2001 Audi A4 1

1. We were stuck in traffic on an incline for a period of approximately 5 to 10 minutes slowly approaching the caldecott tunnel (cal. Highway 24-east bound) which was backed up. I was required to push our manual clutch in an out repeatedly during the backup, but was very careful not to 'ride' the clutch. 2. Twice in a period of 12 months, the special 'dual clutch' flywheel and clutch assembly began to catch fire. In the first instance, the car became inoperative and had to be towed. In the second instance I was able to get off the freeway to prevent further damage and danger, but the car was again inoperative. It is undoubtedly the defective flywheel design which is catching fire since the clutch in the first instance had just been replaced. 3. In both instances within the 12-month period, the entire flywheel and clutch system had to be replaced even though the clutch was still operative. The expense was approximately $3000 for each repair since Audi claimed this was 'driver error. ' (the repair parts are available. ) this is a preposterous claim since I have been driving manual transmission vehicles successfully for 40+ years without having similar problems as experienced with the fire-prone Audi flywheel. Similar complaints and experiences are reported on the internet all over the country on various forums. All such reports detail a similar denial of responsibility by Audi.
See all problems of the 2001 Audi A4 .

Manual Transmission problem of the 2003 Audi A4 2

The coil pack on the vehicle was damaged (shaking upon acceleration). After researching the internet, I found that 2001, 2002 and beginning of 2003 Audi A4s has been recalled for this part. When I called Audi America, they said my VIN number was not included in this recall. The dealership replaced the coil pack at a cost of over $500.
See all problems of the 2003 Audi A4 .

Manual Transmission problem of the 2003 Audi A4 3

Windshield wiper transmission seizing while in use with no warning. Wiper motor and transmission replaced at 83000 miles. Vehicle is three years old.

Manual Transmission problem of the 1997 Audi A4 4

Operation of this A4 configuration at speeds lower than 8 m. P. H. Requires either that the operator lug the engine (I. E. , run at less than the recommended 1500 r. P. M. In first gear) or not close the clutch completely. This design defect has lead to excessive clutch wear, requiring two replacements in less than 52,000 miles and two incidents of clutch overheating, with smoke. A potential fire hazard exists if the vehicle is operated at less than 4 m. P. H. For an extended period (e. G. , more than 30 minutes) as may be expected in certain metropolitan traffic jams. The clutch design is also unsuitable for dynamic braking, showing excessive wear, thereby contributing to premature failure and the fire hazard. The A4 is otherwise a very fine automobile. The manufacturer should correct this design defect ASAP through provision of a low gear, six-speed option, adjustment of ratios or similar remedy.
See all problems of the 1997 Audi A4 .

Manual Transmission problem of the 1997 Audi A4 5

Transmission is shot and has to be replaced.

Manual Transmission problem of the 1996 Audi A4 6

There is a delayed shifting problem in the vehicle at highway speeds. Vehicle will slam into gear and sometimes surge forward suddenly causing driver to lose control. The manufacturer has been notified.
See all problems of the 1996 Audi A4 .