VAG Fault Codes P173500 / P173600: DSG DQ381 TCU Issue Resolved

The DQ380/DQ381 is a seven-speed DSG transmission that utilises a wet dual-clutch setup, developed by the Volkswagen Group. This transmission has been widely adopted across the VW/Audi range since 2017. Designed for vehicles with a transversely mounted engine, the DQ380/381 is capable of handling 420 Nm of torque, making it a suitable choice for hot hatches and small cars alike.

The mechatronics are the heart of the DSG transmission. A combination of hydraulics, electronics and software that combine to handle the clutch operation and gear changes. Part of this assembly is the TCU, which processes data from signals and sensors to control appropriate actions.

P173500 & P173600: What do they mean?!

These fault codes indicate that there is an issue relating to the clutch position/pressure sensors:

P173500 – Position Sensor for Clutch 1: Electrical Malfunction
P173600 – Position Sensor for Clutch 2: Electrical Malfunction

These sensors measure the exact position of the clutch and relay that information to the TCU. If these signals aren't received or are processed incorrectly, the transmission will not be able to operate correctly.

What vehicles are fitted with a DQ380 / DQ381 Mechatronics?

The DQ380 / DQ381 is fitted to a variety of 7-speed DSG-equipped vehicles:

Audi A3 8V (2012 - 2020)
Audi Q3 F3 (2018 on)
Cupra Ateca (2018 - 2020)
Seat Ateca 5PX (2016 on)
Seat Tarraco (2018 - 2024)
Skoda Karoq (2017 on)
Skoda Kodiaq (2017 - 2024)
Skoda Superb 3V (2015 - 2024)
Volkswagen Arteon (2017 on)
Volkswagen Golf VII (2017 - 2020)
Volkswagen T-Roc (2017 on)
Volkswagen Tiguan AD1 (2017 - 2023)
Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace (2017 - 2023)
Volkswagen Touran 5T1 (2015 onwards)

P173500 / P173600: The Symptoms

These fault codes prevent the transmission from functioning properly. The fault can manifest itself in the following ways:

Shocks when driving away
Transmission won't shift or gets stuck in gear
Only even or odd gears are available
Lack of power or irregular gear changes

The Solution:

An ACTRONICS remanufacture will address all failure points associated with these units, starting with an inspection, test, remanufacture and then final inspection before being returned to you to be refitted to the vehicle.