PDK Transmission Services
Please do not wait to experience the unmatched expertise of Atlanta Speedwerks for your Porsche PDK and manual transmission service needs.
PDK Transmission Services in Gainesville, GA
Are you having issues with your transmission? Is the dealer telling you that you need to buy a new transmission?
We are the experts on PDK’s, with over 100 PDK’s repaired as of 9/1/2023!
TL;DR: Atlanta Speedwerks is one of the few US shops specializing in complete PDK transmission rebuilds, not just sensor replacements. We’ve repaired over 100 PDKs with full dealer-level calibration capabilities and heavy-duty upgrade options.
Atlanta Speedwerks is one of just a handful of shops in the US that can rebuild or repair your PDK transmission. We do far more than just replace sensors, we do complete overhauls when needed. If you are considering another shop, ask if they have the ability to rebuild a PDK, replace clutches, troubleshoot wiring and the Transmission Control Unit, and do a FULL dealer level calibration.
Porsche vehicles are our specialty. We have many satisfied customers using our rebuilt transmissions on the street and the track with thousands of miles of use.
Our technicians at our Gainesville service shop understand the unique demands and complexities of PDK transmissions. Atlanta Speedwerks offers full rebuild services, making your PDK better than new. We can install new heavy-duty clutches for cars with horsepower modifications and fix common wear problems. We also fix the dreaded distance/position sensor issue that is likely to occur as the vehicle ages. With our unwavering commitment to care, precision, and expertise, we offer unrivaled services for these sophisticated transmission systems.
We have put together a few presentations on PDK’s you should watch:
What Makes the PDK Transmission Special
The Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) has been a staple in Porsche vehicles for decades. It is a dual-clutch transmission system that offers quick gear changes and seamless and flexible power delivery, and it can be found in today’s popular Porsche lineup. The PDK features hydraulically actuated wet-clutch packs to lubricate the transmission parts and, depending on the gear, alternate power to the engine via separate driveshafts.
The PDK transmission was originally made for racing. You can change gears manually using the sports steering wheel or drive in automatic mode for optimal comfort. The other advantages of the transmission include:
Fast gear changes with no interruption to the flow of power
Lower fuel consumption
Lighter weight
Better comfortability
Common Problems with the PDK Transmission
997, 991, Cayman, Boxster, and other PDK-equipped vehicles that are exhibiting gearbox faults send the car into limp mode, rendering it undrivable. Many times it will not shift into reverse and will only have certain gears available. This sometimes can be “reset” and the problem will go away for a short period of time, but usually becomes progressively worse. We advise you to stop driving the vehicle at the first signs of trouble, otherwise you can do more damage that will result in a bigger repair bill.
Most shifting problems can be attributed to a faulty distance sensor or displacement sensor within the PDK transmission itself. The message you will have seen on your dash display will read, “Transm. fault. Poss. no R gear. Drive on poss.”
HOWEVER, it is important to note that the distance sensor is not always the issue. Other possible causes are temp sensor, faulty TCU, broken synchros, wiring issues, solenoids, valve body, clutches, flywheel, and more. We know this because we have repaired them all!
We can repair your PDK transmission instead of buying a new one at a much lower cost.
PDK Problem Diagnosis Reference
| Symptoms | Common Error Codes | Possible Causes |
|---|---|---|
| Car undrivable or in limp mode | P1731, P1732, P1733, P1734, P1735 | Distance/position sensor failure |
| No reverse gear available | Other 17xx errors, some 17Dx | Temp sensor, faulty TCU |
| Dash message “Gearbox fault…” | “Shift rod N displacement sensor” | Wiring issues, solenoids |
| Limited gear availability | Dealer diagnosis of sensor failure | Valve body, clutches, flywheel |
Frequently Asked Questions About PDK Transmissions
What happens if I don’t service my PDK transmission?
Skipping service can lead to overheating, clutch wear, and mechatronic failures. Neglect often results in costly repairs or even full transmission replacement.
What are the signs of PDK transmission failure?
Signs of PDK transmission failure include the dashboard message “Transm. fault. Poss. no R gear. Drive on poss.,” the car entering limp mode, and inability to shift into reverse. You may also experience error codes P1731-P1735, and problems that temporarily disappear but usually become progressively worse.
What is the mechatronic unit in a PDK transmission, and why does it fail?
The mechatronic unit is the electronic-hydraulic brain of the PDK. Failures often occur from heat, fluid contamination, or electrical faults, causing shifting issues.
Do I need a Porsche specialist to repair a PDK transmission?
Yes. PDK service requires Porsche-specific diagnostic software, tools, and expertise. General transmission shops typically lack the training for accurate repairs.
Why do PDK transmissions shift faster than traditional automatics?
The dual-clutch system allows the next gear to be pre-selected, so shifts occur in milliseconds without interrupting power delivery.
Comprehensive Auto Repair Services
Our Amenities
At Atlanta Speedwerks, we strive to make your experience as convenient and comfortable as possible. Our amenities include:
Complimentary
Wi-Fi
Comfortable
Waiting Area
Shuttle
Service
After-Hours
Drop-Off and Pick-Up
Loaner
Vehicles
Complimentary
Wi-Fi
Comfortable
Reception
Shuttle
Service
After-Hours
Drop-Off and Pick-Up
Loaner
Vehicles
Warranty and Financing Information
We stand behind our work with a comprehensive warranty. All our services are backed by a 2-year/24,000-mile nationwide warranty through TechNet, providing you with peace of mind and confidence in our repairs. We also offer financing through TechNet.
Why Choose Atlanta Speedwerks for PDK Transmission Services
When you choose Atlanta Speedwerks for your PDK transmission repair needs, you can expect us to go the extra mile for you. To make your PDK repairs easier, we provide customers with an Uber/Lyft ride and select warranties on qualified services.
You can find us at 470 Woodsmill Rd., Suite E, Gainesville, GA 30501 (570 Woodsmill Rd. in your GPS), or call 678-971-5300 to book your Porsche PDK service. We proudly serve all of Hall County and the surrounding areas, including Gainesville, Oakwood, Flowery Branch, Clermont, Cleveland, Braselton, Buford, and Cumming.