Reconditioned Audi Gearbox

Reconditioned Audi Gearboxes: from 1996 to 2024, the engine code makes all the difference

On an Audi 2.0 TDI, more than thirty engine codes exist across the range, from the early generations (AZV, BKD, BMM from the early 2000s) to the more recent units (CLLB, CMFA, DFBA, DFGA up to 2024). Despite sharing the same engine capacity, the gearbox fitted can be a 5- or 6-speed manual, a DSG 6 or a DSG 7 — and these four types are not interchangeable. The same logic applies to the 1.4 TFSI: codes CAXA and CZDA do not take the same gearbox, even though the engine capacity is identical. Above all else, the engine code stamped on the block remains the only reliable reference.

Audi gearbox families: manuals, DSG 6 and DSG 7

The catalogue covers seventeen models, from the A1 to the R8, with the greatest concentration on the A3, TT, A4 and S3, which account for the vast majority of available references. Four gearbox types are covered: 5-speed manual (found mainly on diesel engines produced before 2008, notably 1.9 TDI codes BKC, BKE, BXE), 6-speed manual, DSG 6 and DSG 7. DSG gearboxes are supplied without the mechatronic unit but come fitted with a brand-new dual-clutch assembly. The DSG 7 is fitted primarily to smaller petrol engines (1.2, 1.4, 1.5 TFSI) and certain recent 2.0 TDI units; the DSG 6 to more powerful units such as the 2.0 TFSI (codes AXX, BWA, CAEB) or the 3.2 (codes AUK, BDB, BHE). Automated manual gearboxes are not included in this catalogue.

Common identification pitfalls on Audi models

The 2.0 TFSI is a perfect illustration of the difficulty: between codes AXX / BWA (first generation, high torque) and CAEB / CCZA (next generation), the gearbox differs. The 3.2 TFSI shares certain codes (BDB, BHE, BMJ) with the naturally aspirated 3.2, but the gearbox is not always the same depending on the model (TT or A3) and the drivetrain (front-wheel drive or quattro). For the 3.0 TDI, code CAPA (Q5, A4, A6) does not call for the same reference depending on whether it is paired with a manual or automatic gearbox. Rebuilding your own unit is also available alongside the standard exchange option for the most specific references.