forum-trans.com

So I've been doing my homework on getting the gearbox serviced on my 2015 S3 and I keep going back and forth on this one particular aspect that's really bugging me. I've got a quote from a specialist that uses genuine Audi transmission fluid and another place that's about 30% cheaper but they use a well known aftermarket brand that claims to meet all the same specifications. Now I know with engine oil you can usually get away with good quality aftermarket stuff as long as it meets the right standards, but I've read so many horror stories about transmissions failing because someone used the wrong fluid or a fluid that didn't quite match the required properties. The thing that worries me is that these ZF and DSG boxes are incredibly sensitive to the exact viscosity and friction characteristics of the fluid, and even a slight deviation could cause issues down the line. I live near MBZ City and I've been looking for a place that does Genuine Audi transmission system oil replacement in MBZ City because I figure it's better to be safe than sorry, but I also don't want to be throwing money away if the aftermarket stuff is genuinely just as good. I've seen some independent tests that suggest certain aftermarket fluids actually perform better than the OEM stuff, but then I've also seen forum posts from people who had their transmission fail shortly after using non-genuine fluid and they're convinced that was the cause. I'm really torn on this one and I'd love to hear from anyone who's actually used aftermarket transmission fluid in their Audi long term and can share their experience. Did it work out fine or did you end up regretting saving a few hundred dirhams? I'm trying to make a sensible decision here but the more I read the more confused I get to be honest.