2001 jetta automatic transmission does not down shift or shift into overdrive

Derek Bannister

• 101 Answers
• Posted on May 20, 2009

SOURCE: 2001 vw jetta automatic transmission problem

Have you checked your transmission fluid?

SOURCE: 2001 jetta tdi automatic transmission will not shift into high ge

My 2002 Jetta TDI will not always go into reverse. When this happens I put it in 1st then back to reverse and many times it goes right in reverse. It happens whether it is cold or warmed.

SOURCE: 2001 volkswagon jetta wont shift passed second

HI. I would inspect the transmission fluid level, asap. This is the first issue that may cause this no shift. Low fluid level can damage the gear assembly, if it is not at a optimal level. If the fluid is at an acceptable level, this will lead to a failed shift solenoid. These devices are located inside the transmission, mounted on the valve body. You will need to remove the transmission pan, in order to, expose the shift solenoid. there are three(control,kickdown,OD). The solenoid at question, will be your control solenoid(shift). This damaged device will need to be tested for proper Resistance, or continuity. A multimeter can be used for testing. Each solenoid is equipped with two terminals. use these terminals for testing. This will , also, require you to drain all the transmission fluid, as well.


NOTE_ If you are uncomfortable with disassembling the transmission, i would suggest to contact your local mechanic for this inspection, and repair.

SOURCE: 2001 Jetta won't shift into high gear/

In 2001 the "Check Engine" light might give information about what's going on with the transmission. You may want to have it checked by a shop before the transmission decides to die. It might be a simple fix.

SOURCE: 2004 Passat 1.8T tiptronic automatic harsh down shifts

My 2004 Passat 1.8T 4motion has the same problem. Took it to the dealer. I thought it might be a software issue as there was a service bulletin for a similar issue registered at the NHTSA.gov website. They claimed they did all the sensor checks and found nothing. Then they said the tranny was shot and for a mere $5,000 I could have a new one. I begged to differ so I called VW itself and described the issue. Their customer service rep was not even up to the type of car this was and had no idea about what I was inquiring. Those people are trained to be obstructionists by VW. I tried to get this problem elevated to a higher level and was told they were the end of the line. Sadly we're on are own with this manufacturer. They simply deny, deny and deny. I'd suggest you lodge the problem with the NHTSA under defect investigation. Maybe some day they'll find it was a design or manufacturing flaw, just like their coil issue.