8-Speed Automatic Transmission Assembly for 2014-2017 Audi Q5, SQ5

A quick look at your own vehicle makes sure the right transmission shows up:

• Confirm transmission code (QDA, PFJ, or MQY) on the white paper option sticker in the spare tire well or maintenance booklet.
• Verify engine type (3.0L V6 TDI Diesel vs 3.0L TFSI Gasoline) to ensure correct fitment.
• For SQ5 owners, confirm the 7th and 8th digits of the VIN are FP.
• Scan transmission module (Address 02) to confirm original software part number matches 0BK300040R001.

What the install really takes — plan and budget with confidence:

Special tools this job needs:

• Triple square (XZN) sockets (M10, M12, M14)
• Torx sockets (T25, T40)
• Engine support bar
• Heavy-duty transmission jack
• Professional OBD2 diagnostic scanner (VCDS/VAG-COM or ODIS)
• Fluid transfer pump/filler system

Budget for these consumables at install:

• ZF Lifeguard 8 ATF (Audi/VW Part Number: G 060 162 A2)
• Transmission filter and pan gasket kit (with new single-use aluminum bolts)
• Torque converter seal
• Axle seals
• Transmission cooler line flush solvent
• Replacement subframe X-brace stretch bolts (x2 14mm Triple Square WHT005372, x4 18mm Hex N91151101, x4 Square Nuts WHT002305)

What your vehicle’s computers will need after the swap:

What’s involved: Component Protection Removal / Immobilizer Adaptation

The TCM is part of Audi's 5th Generation Immobilizer (WFS5) and Component Protection system. A used unit will lock into limp mode (P1701) until adapted online via Audi ODIS. Alternatively, the original functioning mechatronics unit can be physically swapped into the replacement transmission to bypass programming.

Pro tips for a smooth first start-up — hand them to whoever does the install:

• Torque Converter Seating: Must click and drop back 2 to 3 times to fully seat. Tightening bellhousing bolts on an unseated converter will instantly crack the internal oil pump.
• Fluid Fill Temperature Window: Level must be checked with engine running, vehicle level, and fluid temperature strictly between 30°C and 50°C (or 30°C and 40°C) using a diagnostic scanner.
• Emergency Park Cable Alignment: Misalignment will permanently trigger a P17F9 code and lock the vehicle in Park.
• Subframe Brace Bolts: These are torque-to-yield stretch bolts and must be replaced to prevent chassis vibrations or snapping.
• Pan Bolt Torque Sequence: Plastic oil pan bolts must be tightened in a specific cross-wise pattern to low torque plus angle to avoid cracking.

Easy to get right once you know them:

• Ordering for a gasoline engine when a diesel unit is required (or vice versa, due to differing gear ratios, torque converters, and bellhousing patterns).
• Assuming a plug-and-play install and misinterpreting Component Protection lock/limp mode as a defective transmission.
• Reusing single-use subframe stretch bolts.
• Checking transmission fluid level with the engine turned off, which causes severe underfilling.
• Using generic multi-vehicle ATF instead of the required ZF-Lifeguard 8 fluid.
• Skipping the transmission cooler and line flush, introducing debris from the failed unit into the replacement.

Not issues with the units on this page — the manufacturer documented these for every transmission of this family, wherever you buy one. Handy for your installer: