Thread: D3 - is a transmission firmware update risky?

Resetting the gearbox adaptions is not risky in itself. It may initially shift differently and then take a period of time to alter back to what you're used to but that's not doing any harm or anything outside normal programming. Reflashing the firmware could be seen as a risk. Hypothetically, if the process was to fail, you may be left with a non-functioning ECU. But note that my comments are not based on experience and I've not read of issues with the Gap reflashing process, so the risk is probably very low. It's similar to the disclaimer they make regarding CCF editing (which I have done). When you are changing anything in programming there's a risk.

Cheers,
Scott

From what ive heard as the transmissions (and oils) wear the computer adapts to release the clutches differently to provide smooth shifting. When you change the oil and reset the adaptions the clutches and plates and whatnot are more worn than a new box (obviously) and therefore shifts can be clunky and slow.

Apparently a remedy is to drive it in sport mode for a while.

My auto mech advised me to not reset the transmissions based on this.

What are the advantages of updating the firmware?

I’m hoping that the update will remove an annoying habit for the transmission to hold a lower gear when going up a hill near where I live when cold. Gap mentioned the update for mine if for better low speed behaviour. I’m also a bit OCD with updating software

Would you have a way of reverting to the current version if the update was unsuitable?

I have always reset adaptations with every fluid change as instructed in the manual and while it changes harsh initially, taking the vehicle for a drive allows it to very quickly reset the adaptations to suit the new oil.

Originally Posted by DiscoJeffster

I have always reset adaptations with every fluid change as instructed in the manual and while it changes harsh initially, taking the vehicle for a drive allows it to very quickly reset the adaptations to suit the new oil.

Cool thanks I will give it a go. I’ve had the transmission serviced and they didn’t reset adaptations.

Originally Posted by Milton477

Would you have a way of reverting to the current version if the update was unsuitable?

I will see if the option is available and post here. I still need to update my iidtool.

Originally Posted by goofyr

Cool thanks I will give it a go. I’ve had the transmission serviced and they didn’t reset adaptations.

I don’t think it’s the end of the world at all. It just means the adaptations will take longer as they’re gradual over time whereas I presume after a reset it goes through a rapid relearn. You can feel it happen very quickly.