Volkswagen and Audi are rightly considered the pioneers in the serial use of robotic twin-clutch transmissions.
Manufacturers began to actively install preselective boxes on their cars back in 2003.
Since then, Volkswagen models have been equipped with a transmission called DSG, and Audi's development was called S-Tronic.

This is what the now classic DSG 7 box looks like

First of all, it will be fair to note that both companies are divisions of the VAG concern.
Given this fact, it is almost useless to look for any serious design or technological differences in the units.
Moreover, comparing the existing modifications of the DSG, you can see that most versions of the C-Troniks are their full counterpart.

However, there are still exceptions!

We must not forget that many modern Audi models have a longitudinal engine arrangement,
while all DSG versions are equipped with transversely mounted power units.

And this is already a variant of the manual transmission S-Tronic for Audi (standard)

And the C-Tronic variant for the Audi A7 Sportback is also equipped with a wet clutch unit

Thus, under the hood of the all-wheel drive and parts of the front-wheel drive models from Audi, there are unique S-Tronic modifications,
not having "twins" in the DSG line.
Rearranged gearboxes are factory marked DL382 and DL501, and are designated by the following indexes: 0B5, 0CK, 0CL, 0CJ.

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Today, large automakers are increasingly equipping new models of their cars with preselective gearboxes.
Gradually, the "robot" with two clutches is becoming a familiar attribute of premium equipment.

What is the difference between S-Tronic and DSG - a marketing ploy or different units?

However, Volkswagen and Audi stand out from the general list - they were the first to take this path, starting the serial use of preselections back in the early 2000s.
The transmission installed on Volkswagen cars is called DSG (abbreviation for Direct Shift Gearbox).

Audi's invention was presented to the world under the name S-Tronic.

As you know, both of these companies are divisions of the VAG concern. Given this "kinship" and the simultaneous release of the RKPP, it can be assumed that the development was carried out jointly. This conjecture is confirmed by the fact that the DSG and S-Tronic do not have obvious design or technological differences.

Moreover, there is an opinion that S-Tronic is a rebranding of DSG.

However, everything is not so obvious. The catch lies in the layout of the engine, which in the case of Audi, is quite non-standard.
A huge part of cars from the Audi model range are distinguished by a longitudinal engine arrangement.
As for the majority of passenger cars, including the brainchild of Volkswagen, the motor is located there transversely.
All generations and modifications of the DSG are also designed for a transverse layout.
At this stage, it becomes clear how the S-Tronic differs from the DSG.

With iron confidence, we can say that certain changes and improvements Audi definitely had to be made.

Unique modifications of the S-Tronic are installed on all four-wheel drive and some front-wheel drive models.
Such units can be distinguished by the factory markings - DL382 and DL501. For service designation, indices are usually used: 0B5, 0CK, 0CL, 0CJ.

The seven-speed transmission works on the principle of a parallel double clutch. S tronic gearboxes are the most popular gearboxes for aggressive driving enthusiasts. The gearing of the even and odd rows is constantly in the engaged position and comes into operation without delay, immediately after the action on the gear lever. Thanks to the double clutch, the switching of modes is carried out instantly, supplied continuously, without noticeable power losses.

S tronic- What is it

S tronic Audi is a robot box with unique properties, capabilities and qualities. The design of the S tronic preselective gearbox includes two rows of modes (in fact, these are dual shafts with gears from independent mechanical boxes combined into one mechanism) and two clutches, each of which is responsible for the operation of its own gears - even and odd rows.

For example, at the moment of acceleration of the car, the second gear is turned on, then the automatic system is triggered and instantly switches to third by opening the clutch discs of the (even) row and connecting the next. The process of switching to another mode occurs very quickly, while there are no characteristic jerks and delays, the power from the power unit is transmitted in a continuous flow through the preselective transmission to the chassis of the car.

Sectional view of the S tronic box:

Description of the design of the robotic gearbox DSG s-tronic

The main working elements of the mechanism:

1. Clutch discs - 2 pieces.
2. Secondary shafts - 2 pcs. One shaft is inserted into the other, each of which is equipped with gears that include odd and even gears, respectively.
3. ECU is an automatic system.
4. A large number of special sensors that send signals to the on-board computer.
5. Hydraulic system of actuators.
6. Lubrication system.

S tronic box design features:

• longitudinal arrangement of the box in the transmission;
• the seventh gear is located at some distance from the first six, which allows you to reduce the engine speed;
• the presence of a "wet" clutch;
• using hydraulic drives to change gears;
• operation of two independent lubrication circuits.

Unlike previous developments, where similar boxes were installed in car models with a transverse motor, the new unit has a longitudinal connection diagram.

Previous designs have used a dry clutch type. Here the clutch basket is filled with a special one, the function of which is not only the lubrication of the gearbox units and parts, but also the removal of heat from the working surfaces.

It is connected to the clutch mechanism via a hydraulic drive system.

Due to the presence of separate oil systems, the gearbox design is highly reliable. Primary oil is pumped by an oil pump to the double-disc clutch, then to the Mechatronic electronic module, and then returns to the pump. The fluid circulating inside the second system is designed to lubricate the gears of the gears of the gearbox and differentials.

Technical characteristics of the Audi S tronic:

• The S tronic is capable of transmitting a torque of at least 550 Nm from a powerful engine;
• maximum shaft speed of the power unit is allowed up to 9,000 rpm.

The S-tronic robotic gearbox is used in four-wheel drive and front-wheel drive vehicles with a powerful engine that develops high revs. Location - longitudinal, transmission type - "quattro". It is often referred to as a preselective stronic box. Most often, the Stronic robot can be found on the cars of the famous automakers Audi, Volkswagen.

Pros and cons of the box robot DSG S tronic

A high-tech robotic box has all the positive qualities inherent in both traditional mechanical devices and automatic machines. Thanks to the electronic control unit, which operates according to complex schemes and algorithms, the vehicle is controlled with increased comfort.

Car owners who own a vehicle with a preselective S tronic gearbox note the following advantages of their cars:

1. Relatively small dimensions and weight of the mechanism.
2. Improved vehicle dynamics.
3. Smooth and, at the same time, fast acceleration of the car.
4. Instant switching of speeds (time spent no more than 0.8 seconds).
5. Profitability (savings in fuel consumption - at least 10%).
6. The absence of a clutch pedal simplifies transmission control.

If some malfunctions occur during the operation of the robotic gearbox, the driver receives appropriate warnings. Due to the timely appeal to the service center, the repair of the entire device is simplified. With the help of special diagnostic devices, qualified workers quickly find problems that have arisen in the vehicle and eliminate them in a short time.

Among the deficiencies noted, the following factors are noted:

• relatively high cost of the mechanism, which is reflected in the price of the entire car;
• expensive qualified maintenance of the Sitronic, since partial or complete replacement of the oil, as well as the oil filter, should be carried out only in specialized service centers;
• complicated box design.

With wear of the working units and parts of the differentials, various negative symptoms begin to appear:

1. Dips, jerks during acceleration and transition to high speeds.
2. Vibrations when switching from first to second speed.

Tip: Experienced car owners recommend regular oil changes in preselective transmissions. In their authoritative opinion, the maximum mileage between these procedures should not exceed 40-50,000 km. Ignoring these recommendations can provoke failure of the clutch discs and clutch mechanisms. The s-tronic uses only the original brand recommended by the car manufacturer. Simultaneously with the replacement of the lubricant, it is necessary to replace the oil filter, so that the wear elements that are on the metal mesh of the filter element do not get back into the fresh ATF oil.

1. ATF G052529A2 oil - in a volume of 6 liters.
2. Filter 0B5325330A.
3. Filter seal WHT005499A.
4. Oil pan gasket 0B5321371E.

As you know, since 2002 DSG boxes have been installed on Volkswagen, Skoda and Seat cars.
At the same time, Audi began to serially install the S-tronic transmission on its cars.
Moreover, all of these companies are part of a single concern - the Volkswagen Group.
Quite expectedly, such a "coincidence" has become the reason for numerous guesses and disputes. Let's try to clarify the situation.

Given the kinship of the companies, there really is no point in looking for serious differences between S-tronic and DSG.

Moreover, many models of the manual transmission are complete twins.
This list includes: DSG-7 (DQ-200), DSG-6 (DQ-250) and DSG-7 (DQ-500).
However, the brand with four rings also has its own designs.
These are transmissions that are designed for longitudinal engine mounting.

Due to the transverse layout, until 2008 the existing DSG versions did not cover the entire model range.
To solve this problem, Audi has released a box version of the DL-501.
Its characteristics coincide with the DQ-500, and the design is adapted for the longitudinal placement of the motor.
DL-501 is used only on powerful all-wheel drive cars Audi.

The second unique development was the DL-382. With 400 Nm of maximum torque, the box is available in two versions: for front-wheel drive (F) and all-wheel drive (Q) cars.

Therefore, to the question, how the S-Tronic differs from the DSG, cannot be answered unambiguously.

In general, these are identical units released under different trade names.
However, some Audi models are still equipped with exclusive boxes that have no analogues in the DSG line.
These gearboxes can be distinguished by the factory indexes: 0B5, 0CK, 0CL, 0CJ.

Our specialized service provides services for the diagnosis and repair of DSG (S-tronic) of all generations.
To make an appointment, you just need to send an "online application" or call the contact number.

The premium car segment is distinguished not only by its exquisite appearance and the highest level of comfort, but also by design innovations. S-Tronic is a modern gearbox installed in such a segment, in particular, on cars of the “big German three” Audi.

S-Tronic - what is it

The transmission is the most important part of the vehicle. There are many varieties of automatic boxes on the market. These nodes are gaining popularity all over the world. The ability of the car to move, as well as the comfort of the driver himself and traffic safety, largely depends on the correct operation of this part. One of the most modern trends in the development of new devices is the creation of robotic preselective units in combination with an electronic control unit.

The concept of a preselective s-tronic means that the next gear (it does not matter: low or high) is already engaged by the system, which greatly improves driving comfort, increases acceleration dynamics, and also significantly saves fuel.

One of the most progressive is considered a device with two clutches of the as tronic gearbox. This unit is a further logical continuation of the DSG system from the German VAG, which also includes Audi. However, this device is the company's own development based only on the principle of operation and the layout of its "younger" brother. This unit consists of several parts (which is what differs from other automatic transmissions):

1. The electronic control unit of the s tronic automatic transmission system is a mass of various sensors and a single unit that synchronizes the operation of the shafts and clutches during the movement of the car. This electronic unit of the system is the most important part, since it is the electronic algorithm that allows you to quickly and adequately change gears. Moreover, this part is one of the most expensive to repair. The s-tronic sensors constantly signal and send to the main unit a wealth of information about the traffic situation, driving speed, engine parameters, driver's driving style and other indicators that allow the system to quickly adapt. In addition, the cost of this unit in case of failure is quite high. However, in the absence of mechanical damage to the system unit, problems with it do not often arise.
2. Unit clutches - this box contains 2 clutches that operate asynchronously. One is responsible for the inclusion of even transmissions, the second odd. Thus, smooth and fast shifting speed is achieved, which is less than 1 second. The operation of these units is controlled by an electronic control unit.
3. The shafts of the s-tronic unit perform mechanical work inside the box by means of torque transfer and clutch control. Also in the unit there is a valve body, which is responsible for the working pressure inside the transmission. In inexpensive versions of this type of robotic box, an electrical analogue is installed, which is less efficient in terms of its performance. The operation of this unit is also controlled by an electronic unit.

This system makes it possible to simplify the process of driving a car, as well as to save fuel, moreover, such boxes easily “digest” large torque, unlike, for example, stepless competitors (variators), which allows them to be aggregated with powerful engines of the Audi line. The system was most widespread in combination with the Audi A6S Tronic model, which significantly increased overall sales.

Important! Despite all the high technology of the s-tronic unit, this system is expensive both to purchase and in subsequent maintenance, but only the presence of a robot will allow you to fully unleash the potential of powerful German engines. This s-tronic unit is very complex in its design.

Pros and cons of the S-Tronic transmission

Like any complex unit, such a box has both its pros and cons. The positive features of the s tronic audi a6 c7 system include:

1. Quick change of gears of the unit due to the design features of the transmission and the operation of the electronic unit. The average response time of the unit both when switching to the upper and lower stages is about 0.7 seconds.
2. Significant fuel economy of the unit in comparison with competitors. Based on the design of the system itself, in fact, such a box is mechanical with an electronic control unit, which independently squeezes the clutch (one of the two) and changes gear. This allows you to reduce fuel consumption, regardless of the class of the car, by an average of 15-18%, which also depends on the correct operation of the S-Tronic electronic unit.
3. Vehicle acceleration dynamics. Taking into account the reaction time of the box when switching, the dynamics of acceleration to 100 km / h does not differ from mechanical competitors and is quite superior to automatic analogs - torque converters and variators. Combined with powerful engines, the difference between the tronic and the classic automatic machine lies in a more dynamic acceleration.

Despite the technological advantage of the box and the indisputable positive aspects, this box also has negative features that can become an obstacle for a certain category of owners to purchase the unit. These include:

1. Uncomfortable switching of the unit in traffic jams. This trait also comes from design. When driving at low speed for a long time, the S-Tronic clutch can overheat, which, when shifting, can lead to jolts, kicks, as well as to chaotic "jumping" from 1st to 2nd gear.
2. In comparison with competitors, the resource of the main parts of the system and, first of all, the clutch, which some drivers have to change before reaching 100 thousand km, is less resource. Designers are constantly improving the unit and this part of the system, but at the moment, in terms of the general level of reliability, the robotic box with tronic audi has certain problems with long-term reliability.

Important! When choosing a used car with such a gearbox, close attention must be paid to the troubleshooting of the unit, since often such cars are sold with problematic boxes.

Differences between S-Tronic and DSG

Structurally, the units of the S-Tronic and DSG systems are very similar, but there is only one significant difference - in the gearbox itself, the DSG has a less reliable electrical unit, and the product from Audi has a valve body. These devices regulate the oil pressure and build an algorithm when signals are sent from the control device. The valve body of the system is considered a more complex and perfect design, while its reliability has been approved not only by running tests, but also by practice. Cases of failure of the unit of this unit in practice are isolated and most often occur with improper operation of the system itself.

S-Tronic adaptation

Another advantage of this unit is the training mode of the box itself. The electronic control unit of the unit, accumulating information about the driver's driving style using various sensors, tries to adapt to his style. In certain cases, this is expressed:

• with an aggressive driving style, the s tronic automatic transmission after passing the training program will try to quickly tuck the desired upper gear, this will affect both the sensations of acceleration dynamics and comfort;
• when driving quietly, mainly in traffic jams, the box will try to go in low gear for as long as possible to avoid kicks.

The learning mode of the system is counted by the moments of engine start. One cycle takes 8-10 such launches.

S-Tronic diagnostics

Diagnostics of such a checkpoint must be done only in a certified service. Given the technological complexity of the unit, the status of all systems is checked in several stages:

1. Checking the electronic control unit of the unit for all sorts of errors is carried out using only certified equipment. This diagnostics helps to identify various errors, find out the status of most sensors and gearbox components.
2. Diagnostics of the mechanical part of the s-tronic is most often carried out when there are signs of a malfunction, together with an electronic check. This method involves opening the gearbox housing, inspection and troubleshooting of component parts.

Important! It is not worth checking this equipment with primitive scanners for reading errors. Incorrect operation of scanners may not reveal most of the problems, and the electronic unit of the box will record incorrect signals, which can lead not only to a loss of warranty, but also to problems with the electronic part of the box.

S-Tronic reliability

The reliability of the s-tronic system will depend entirely on the operating conditions and the owner's driving style. So, with large mileage, frequent change of high-quality oil to original and low loads, such a unit is quite capable of reaching the mileage of 200 thousand km prescribed by the regulations.

However, in practice, such a regime is not always possible to achieve. According to most experts, this type of box is the least reliable among all automatic competitors, although every year the designers make a lot of changes that improve its endurance. In 5-7 years, based on the results of these upgrades, this type of s-tronic will be equal in terms of reliability with the most durable units such as a variator and a torque converter.

S-Tronic resource

The manufacturer's declared resource of this system is 200,000 km. However, adhering to the scheduled oil change of 60,000 km and combining it with aggressive driving, it is almost impossible to achieve such an indicator. As a result of malfunctions, individual elements of the s-tronic can appear as early as 100 thousand kilometers, and overhaul most often overtakes such boxes of 150 thousand. To extend the life of the unit, it is necessary to change the transmission oil frequently and move in traffic jams as little as possible, thereby preventing the system from overheating.

S-Tronic malfunctions

Typical malfunctions due to violation of operating rules or design features include the following:

1. Clutch wear from overheating, increased loads, electronic algorithm malfunction. This problem occurs most often on this unit. At the same time, replacing the s-tronic clutch is the most budgetary operation for this type of gearbox; on average, such an operation will cost the owner about 60-70 thousand rubles.
2. Failure of the S-Tronic electronic unit, shafts as a result of desynchronization of actions. Burnout of sensors, moisture ingress, as well as mechanical damage to the S-Tronic electronic unit can lead to failure of the entire unit. Such a problem in s-tronic requires professional intervention and large infusions, since often not only the unit itself, but also many sensors must be replaced.
3. S-Tronic body and oil seal leaks. Such a problem is quite rare, most often due to the use of a poor-quality transmission or mechanical damage to the case itself. However, if the S-Tronic system is oil starved, the entire unit may fail and cannot be repaired. The cost of such a gearbox in the assembly of a new one is about 400-600 thousand rubles.

Conclusion

S-Tronic is a technologically advanced gearbox at the moment in terms of the totality of all positive and negative qualities, which, if used correctly, will give the owner a lot of positive emotions.