thumb|Audi Multitronic partially disassembled

Multitronic is a stepless transmission launched by AUDI AG in late 1999, jointly developed and manufactured by LuK. The capitalization used is multitronic (spelled by Audi with a lower-case leading 'm') and is a registered trademark of AUDI AG.

thumb|Close-up of the multitronic transmission's chain

It is based on the principles of a continuously variable transmission (CVT) popularised by DAF, but differs from other CVTs by using an unconventional type of steel chain consisting of parallel flat chain segments. Unlike the conventional CVT push belt, the Multitronic chain uses tension to transfer forces. It is not compatible with the quattro four-wheel drive system, nor transverse engine installations such as in the Audi A3. At first, the (model 01J) torque limit was , but the later model 0AW transmission is now modified to withstand torque. In 2014 Audi announced to discontinue Multitronic and replace it with S tronic, effectively making the Audi A5 8T the last model it was sold with.

Reliability

thumb|right|Flashing gear selector (PRNDS) on the dashboard of an Audi A4, indicating a malfunction in the transmission system.

There have been numerous reports from owners around the world that the multitronic transmission is prone to electronic glitches and mechanical issues emerged in the TCUs commonly cause by overheat oil leakage to TCU especially for models (01J & 0AN) using clutch pack with six plates built before or around 2006. Later model ( 0AW with VL381f TCU) have been considered more reliable. Typical symptoms include flashing gear selector (PRNDS indicator) on the dashboard, hesitation and/or shudder during acceleration, inability to select reverse gear and others. there are cases where transmission failures have still occurred even with recommended fluid changes.

In the USA a Class Action was won to give Audi owners a new transmission if it failed in the first 10 years.

Promotional campaign

In 2001, Audi promoted the Multitronic transmission with television commercials throughout Europe, featuring an impersonator of musician and actor Elvis Presley. A prototypical dashboard figure - later named "Wackel-Elvis" ("Wobble Elvis" or "Wobbly Elvis") - appeared in the commercials to demonstrate the smooth ride in an Audi equipped with the Multitronic transmission. The dashboard figure was originally intended for use in the commercials only, but after they aired the demand for Wackel-Elvis grew among fans and the figure was mass-produced in China and marketed by Audi in their factory outlet store.

References

  • Variable Automatic Gearbox multitronic 01J Design and Function Self-Study Programme 228