At The Garage, we work on all kinds of vehicles every day — but we’ve got a soft spot for German engineering when it’s done right. This week’s favourite? A transmission fluid and filter service on a 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan equipped with the DSG automatic transmission.
It’s not a fast job, and it’s not flashy. But it’s the kind of service that keeps your car running the way it’s supposed to — and saves you from blowing thousands down the road.
Why You Can’t Skip DSG Transmission Maintenance
VW recommends a transmission service every 5 years or 100,000 km, whichever comes first. This isn’t just a money-grab from the manufacturer — it’s to protect the internal components of one of the most precise and expensive systems in your vehicle.
Unlike older automatics, the DSG transmission uses wet clutch packs and needs clean, specific fluid to maintain hydraulic pressure and prevent wear. Inside the transmission pan sits a filter that catches debris. Over time, that filter gets clogged, and the magnets inside collect metal shavings from normal gear wear.
If this service is skipped, the debris keeps circulating through the system — and that leads to slipping, hard shifts, and eventually a complete transmission failure.
And trust us: replacing a DSG transmission can run $8,000 to $10,000. A fluid and filter service? A few hundred bucks. You do the math.
What This Service Involves (It’s Not a Quick In-and-Out)
Here’s what goes into a proper transmission service for a vehicle like this:
- Drain the old DSG fluid
- Remove the transmission pan
- Replace the internal transmission filter (housed inside the pan)
- Clean pan magnets (ours were loaded with sludge and filings — see photo)
- Install a new pan gasket
- Fill with fresh, OEM-spec DSG fluid
- Reset transmission adaptations (when needed)
- Road test and system scan
It’s not just a fluid swap. And that’s why a quick-lube joint isn’t the right shop for this job. You need techs who know what they’re doing — and who’ve worked on these vehicles before.
What We Found: Sludge, Filings, and a Dirty Filter
When we dropped the pan, the magnets were covered in metal sludge, and the filter had clearly done its job — trapping fine particles before they could recirculate. That’s what we want to see (as long as it’s being cleaned out on time).
The customer now has peace of mind knowing her Tiguan’s transmission is running smooth and protected — and she won’t be blindsided by a four-figure repair bill anytime soon.
Symptoms Your Transmission Might Be Overdue
We’ve already talked about the most common transmission issues and how you can identify them. Here is a reminder of what to Watch out for.
- Delayed or rough gear shifts
- A lag when accelerating
- Vibration or juddering when changing gears
- Transmission warning lights
- Fluid leaks under the vehicle
If you’re experiencing any of these — or you’re at or past the 100,000 km mark — it’s time to book in.
Final Thoughts: Small Service, Big Savings
Modern transmissions are incredible but expensive. Preventative maintenance like this transmission service is the best way to protect your investment — and keep your vehicle driving the way it was meant to.
Whether you’ve got a Tiguan, Golf, Passat, or any other VW, don’t wait too long between services. We’re here to help you get it done right.
Need to book a transmission service?
Give us a shout. Call us or book online to schedule your appointment at The Garage in Burnaby.