How can you tell a DSG gearbox is ok?

[Lewo]

Hi all,
Is there an easy way for a non tech bloke to tell if a DSG gearbox is going to be ok, or is there an easy check a mechanic can do?
As in my other threads, car has 93K miles and has had the DSG oil changed at 40k & 80K.
Speaking to a work colleague today and he said his packed up and had a 2k bill 
Is there a usual life expectancy of these or I guess it might vary with different driving?
It's the only thing that's making me wary in buying the car.

Once again, thanks for putting up with the novice questions.

[th3_f15t]

Do a search on here with the words "DSG Problem" or similar to pull up some previous topics, you'll hopefully get an idea of common problems. As for the life span of the box, you should be fine as yours has been serviced as it should of been and they are pretty tough gearboxes so unless it's not changing gear properly or jumping between gears randomly (i.e. no change in throttle input from you) then it's all good.

Oh, and a quick fault scan with a VW diagnostic tool (Foxwell NT500) or VCDS will show any reported issues that may not be showing symptoms just yet.

[-AC-]

Don't let it put you off buying DSG, it's a superb gearbox.

Yes they can cause problems, specifically the mechatronics unit. But they can be repaired at a fraction of the cost. You don't need to go to a main dealer to do it.

If you are on the mainland, there is a chap in Bristol fixes them.

[FJ1000]

Don't let it put you off buying DSG, it's a superb gearbox.

Yes they can cause problems, specifically the mechatronics unit. But they can be repaired at a fraction of the cost. You don't need to go to a main dealer to do it.

If you are on the mainland, there is a chap in Bristol fixes them.

More details on the bloke in Bristol? Would be a handy contact.

My DSG has what feels like a jerky 3rd to 2nd changedown if I'm in manual mode and it does the change for me on deceleration. Doesn't happen in D mode, or if I shift down myself. Wondering if this is a mechatronics issue.

[Paradox1]

I was curious so I got a quote for the Mech from this company.

he said a few hundred which is better than a brand new one from VW

http://www.ecutesting.com/dsg_gearbox_ecu_removal_instru.html

[-AC-]

@Paradox1 , there are 2 components on a DSG, control unit (TCM) and the valve body. Ecutesting only test control unit. Unless you have any fault codes relating to an electrical issue, they won't be able to do anything. In 90% of cases, they won't be able to do anything as most relate to a faulty valve body.

@FJ1000 ...
Bristol Gearbox Centre
Unit 3
Redhill Farm Business Park
Elberton
BS35 4AG
Bristol

TCM Repair: £450 including fitting
Valve Body Repair: £700 including fitting

Alex: 07748480005

[Paradox1]

Thanks for clearing that up AC