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2008 AUDI S5
4.2L V8•AWD•AUTOMATIC•gas•BNS
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Repairs0Labor494Torque4251Fluid10DTC1087Battery1Maintenance0Recalls0
P3040critical severityPowertrain

Dual-Clutch Transmission Clutch A Overheated

on 2008 Audi S5 4.2L V8 · AWD

What this code means

The DCT control module detected excessive temperature on clutch A (odd gears). Clutch material is overheating, which can cause permanent damage.

Symptoms

  • Check Engine Light
  • Burning smell from transmission
  • Transmission shudder in odd gears
  • Reduced power mode
  • Gear engagement delay
  • Clutch slip in 1st/3rd/5th gears

Common causes

  • Aggressive driving in stop-and-go traffic
  • Clutch A wear beyond limit
  • Insufficient clutch cooling
  • TCM clutch adaptation out of range
  • Towing beyond vehicle rating

Diagnostic steps

  1. Read clutch A temperature PID
  2. Check clutch adaptation values
  3. Inspect DCT fluid level and condition
  4. Review TCM clutch wear counter
  5. Test clutch cooling system flow

Repair notes

Allow clutch to cool before driving. If clutch wear limit is reached, clutch assembly replacement is required. Reset clutch adaptations after replacement.

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