also did they try a recalibration? Worth launching it...cannot hurt.

 

They have recalibrated the TCU about 5 times at this point - even tried a new TCU which produced the same error code/symptoms.

Launching it? I guess I could do launch control, but I don't think it would fix (or hurt) anything.

As for the internal part, I have been searching for anyone that can open the box and fix it, but it's proving to be impossible.

Next step is sending Porsche a letter from a lawyer.

 

Are they 100% sure it’s distance sensor? I know that they may claim that’s internal but my experience prove me they have close to zero knowledge on diagnosing the PDK hence my question.

 

You are spot on with the ZERO knowledge of this transmission. It's actually sad. If this was a Corvette, they would be able to say exactly why the sensor is failing at temperature and be able to fix it.

They only way they know it is the sensor (and not something reading the sensor or another electronic gremlin) is because the P1733 code through PIWIS says Shift Rod 3 Distance sensor and shows that at some point when temp reaches 60C it stops transmitting the impedence/distance of the shift rod. But again, if it's actually the sensor, who knows.

 

Man what a rough story, sorry to hear you are going through this. Hopefully you get it back sorted ASAP!

 

Do you have ZF service office close to where you are? I’m suggesting that path cause I’ve visited one and even if they cannot “officially” open nor repair this gearbox, they have special diagnose tools to find out more exactly where the issue is coming from...remember they are the manufacturer of this PDK (FYI internal reference is 7DT45HL(A) ). It is also worth mentioning they have the skills to open and repair it...so they may be able to do it unofficially....just some ideas.

 

Where does ZF have service offices open to the public?

 

Didn't even occur to me to look for that. Thank you! I found two near my house, called and left a message. Fingers crossed they get back to me and can at least do additional diagnostics.

 

Man ... sucks to see people having the same problem. I'm still at the mercy of the Mechanics strike over here. Actually did get a post from the tech who was working on the car when they had to stop and he was very cool about it. As much as I want my car back I'm not pissed at the mechanics or the dealer ... mostly out of their control. The most aggravating thing is there is another payment coming up and it's been on the rack the whole month. I spoke with the Service Manager and he's going to look into if there is any assist PCNA will give toward that. It's not my fault it's not already done and on the road ... so I'm getting further penalized. Anyhow ... stuck in limbo.

 

Payment for what? For the transmission or its replacement? Why would you need to pay anything to anyone until your car is back and in working order?

Or do you just mean a car payment? That's tough luck, I'm afraid.

 

The Car payment ... I'm really with you on this that it's nothing I can do much about. But I've had a couple friends who've suggested asking about it.

I figure why not ask ... the worst that can be said to me is nothing can be done. Best case ... who knows. But it's not a cheap payment for having a car sit on a rack due to nothing I personally had any responsibility for.

I haven't "beaten" on the dealership about anything as I don't think it's their or the mechanics fault. Plus ... the service manager has been top notch and really helped out getting me some consideration on the repair costs. Mostly I just want to get the car out and drive the crap out of it

 

I would leave it alone. You got a good deal. Besides, everyone has made their car payment this month.

 

Mostly just going to leave things alone ... frankly after the last month dealing with this and now it looks like hassles dealing with the Toyota dealer getting some things done on my FJ I don't have any fight left. Tho I may have some interesting stories to tell about this Toyota dealer after I get my truck this afternoon.

Feeling and looking like they really hosed me on things they should have done. I really wish I learned how to work on cars growing up ... sucking relying on others these days.

 

Didn't the dealer give you a loaner? I thought I remember reading that and if so I'd doubt they would compensate you any more but good luck. Sounds like you've had a tuff run lately.

 

Ironically just had the engine on my Tacoma go out. I never take it to a dealer anymore, as they are always silly expensive.

Found a guy in Schaumburg who is awesome at this stuff as an alternative.