Transmission problems...beware
Rennlist Member
Joined: Nov 2019
Posts: 7,468
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From: linker Fahrbahn
Macan ZF8 seems mechanically doable with a precedent in Q5.
No precedent exists for Macan engine ECU + ZF8 TCU. This seems like a significant coding exercise and would result in an one-off Frankenstein. Nothing against Frankenstein, it’s simply good practice to know what one is getting into
No precedent exists for Macan engine ECU + ZF8 TCU. This seems like a significant coding exercise and would result in an one-off Frankenstein. Nothing against Frankenstein, it’s simply good practice to know what one is getting into
Burning Brakes
Joined: Dec 2021
Posts: 894
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The plastic boards were updated Nov 2013. Audi started using this transmission around 2009.
The transmissions, between models, are the same, perhaps only with different clutch-packs to tailor the max torque ratings.
The transmissions, between models, are the same, perhaps only with different clutch-packs to tailor the max torque ratings.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 970
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From: Bellevue, WA; '26 MacanGTS, '18 Macan S, '10 997S, SPASM, 6spd
5th Gear
Joined: Feb 2025
Posts: 5
Likes: 0
Yes the Play Nice is the problem. The Porsche has their own unique firmware for this Gearbox. But again its a small fix, and as far as I know if you get the service kit mentioned above it's an easy fix and the problem is resolved. The Porsche also has extra cooling apparently. but thats something you can add a trans oil cooler mod. All depends what your doing with it. If you're Towing then definately an oil cooler is a great addition.
Theirs lots of Q5 variants, the key thing that ties these together is the powertrain the 3l V6 Turbo Diesel engine, found in the Q5, SQ5, Q7 Amarok, Macan all used this engine in some form. It tunes incredibly well for extra power. The Q7 and Amarok more likely to get the 8 speed ZF8 as they are heavier duty and sounds like some later Q5's have it. The 501 is the more sportier DSG version so likely the choice for Porsche to base their tuning off.
Theirs lots of Q5 variants, the key thing that ties these together is the powertrain the 3l V6 Turbo Diesel engine, found in the Q5, SQ5, Q7 Amarok, Macan all used this engine in some form. It tunes incredibly well for extra power. The Q7 and Amarok more likely to get the 8 speed ZF8 as they are heavier duty and sounds like some later Q5's have it. The 501 is the more sportier DSG version so likely the choice for Porsche to base their tuning off.
5th Gear
Joined: Feb 2025
Posts: 5
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Thats Said these guys seem to differ and have tehir own rebuild offering.
https://www.ecutesting.com/common-fa...ronic-problem/
But you can see lots of known faults listed for the 501.
They also have a Macan option as its clearly same hardware. https://www.ecutesting.com/product-c...n/etm27256f-h/
But they are in the UK. Claims Unlimited Mileage warranty after repair, which is a plus.
https://www.ecutesting.com/common-fa...ronic-problem/
But you can see lots of known faults listed for the 501.
They also have a Macan option as its clearly same hardware. https://www.ecutesting.com/product-c...n/etm27256f-h/
But they are in the UK. Claims Unlimited Mileage warranty after repair, which is a plus.
Last edited by snowriderAU; Feb 21, 2025 at 04:25 PM.
5th Gear
Joined: Feb 2025
Posts: 5
Likes: 0
Torque ratings all vary depending on how its tuned. I had my Q5 modified. EGR Delete in Software to stop destroying the engine, and increased throttle response and mapping of the gears. Resulted in nearly 1000 Nm from 580. In most stats an SQ5 is actually a sportier ride that the Macan, minus some status and class of course.
- Audi Q5 3.0 TDI:
Typically produces about 580 Nm of torque. - Audi Q7 3.0 TDI:
In most versions the engine is tuned to deliver roughly 600 Nm. - Porsche Macan (Diesel variant):
The “Macan S Diesel” models have a similar output to the Q5 – around 580 Nm. - Audi SQ5 3.0 TDI:
This performance-focused version is generally rated at around 650 Nm.