Hi,
I have a 6-speed manual from VW, MQ200 transmission, ~105,000 miles. Gearbox shifted fine before.
Clutch + DMF replaced, and gearbox oil changed to a PAO-based synthetic one (that has a "recommendation" for the spec that this transmission requires). There was clutch drag after install, and I drove about 900 miles like that before having the clutch replaced again. Now clutch works properly (no drag).
About 300 miles after the second install, I started noticing notchy shifts — especially 1→2, worse when cold.
Question:
- Is it likely significant synchro damage from clutch drag?
- Or could it be the oil (too slippery / wrong friction characteristics)?
Would it be worth spending ~$200 to go back to OEM VW oil (G052527) which is the only one thats mineral-based but very expensive (all the alternatives are syntetic), or just drive it and save for a potential gearbox rebuild/replacement in the future?
Synchros operate via friction and oil can definitely affect shift quality, I've seen that for myself. I would try the correct oil for the transmission and see if that helps.
Caveat: This is general advice. You will probably find more specific information on your transmission in a VW-focused forum.
