The Most Common Hyundai Dual Clutch Transmission Problems – How To Fix

You may have been wondering about the common Hyundai dual clutch transmission problems.

Dual clutch transmissions have become quite popular during the early 2000s. They were highly regarded for providing an improved level of performance and fuel efficiency to cars whether manual or automatic transmissions.

But although dual clutch transmissions have gained initial recognition among car owners, there are a few issues to keep in mind. Learn more about the typical issues with the Hyundai dual clutch transmission and what you can do about these.

Hyundai Dual Clutch Transmission Problems

Dual clutch transmissions are not your typical automatic transmission. There are two individual clutches where one handles an odd-numbered gears set while the other one is for even-numbered gears.

Basically, it is quite like having two different manual transmissions in one housing. When the gears are split up this way, the dual clutch transmission is able to speed up the gear changes as it preselects your next fear. It also uses either a dry clutch setup for low torque figures and wet clutch for high torque.

Because these are automated manual transmission, you no longer need to use a torque converter. Its own electrohydraulics are used for shifting gears.

In comparison to what manual and automatic transmissions offer, dual clutch transmissions perform better. Gear changes are faster and you can make quick gear shifts with very minimal delay. This is why dual clutch transmissions are common in supercars and sports cars.

Moreover, it provides fuel efficiency. Vehicles with DCTs do not require much fuel to deliver the power you need.

However, do take note that there are certain issues common with dual clutch transmissions. For instance, the following can be expected:

1. Jerky Operation

One of the typical complaints that drivers have about dual clutch transmissions is a hesitant or jerky operation. It is commonly felt when you pull away from your stop, as well as when driving at low speeds.

The transmission may also lag each time you need another gear instead of the one it preselected for you. Since there is time required by the software to choose the right gear, a lag occurs.

2. Fluid Contamination

It is also possible for DCTs to undergo fluid contamination in the case of wet clutch setups. The plates can cause a buildup of worn clutch components into your transmission oil. So, frequent oil changes are necessary to prevent this contamination. Otherwise, your vehicle runs the risk of experiencing performance issues and overheating.

3. Clutch Shudder

There are also issues with a clutch shudder when you shift from a lower gear to a different gear. When it comes to dry-clutch setups, the oil seeps into your clutch housing and contaminates the surfaces. But other reasons are linked with this clutch shudder such as internal flaws with your transmission.

4. Neutral/ Park Switch Issues

Some vehicles are unable to start because of a faulty neutral/ park switch. With this communication failure occurring between the powertrain control module and switch, your vehicle may fail to start even when it is on neutral or park.

Does Your Dual Clutch Transmission Need Repair?

Dual clutch transmissions involve sophisticated and complex parts. This is why they are more challenging to repair than a pre-assembled automatic or a simple manual transmission. There are also computer sensors that make it more complicated to fix the DCT.

With many parts to replace or remove, the labor cost and parts should add to your expenses. But thankfully, dual clutch transmissions are pretty reliable, which is why the need for repairs is infrequent.

However, when you observe issues with your dual clutch transmission, you may have to decide if you should have it repaired or replaced. Sometimes, replacing with a brand new part is a more reasonable option due to the amount of time and energy needed to rebuild your existing transmission.

A way to reduce the number of visits to the mechanic is by taking care of your DCT. Keep it well-maintained and follow manufacturer’s recommendations for maintenance and servicing schedules.

Make sure that you flush the transmission fluid periodically and keep it replenished. This way, no harmful materials or debris get into the machinery.

If you notice trouble, make it a priority to send your vehicle to a mechanic right away. Delaying the need for repair could end up being more costly over time when a bigger problem happens.

Caring For Your Dual Clutch Transmission

When it comes to proper care of your DCt, there are some things you can do. For instance, you should not activate your parking brake and then release your brake pedal when you are in the D or R gear. This will engage the clutch but will slip since your car does not move.

Furthermore, use your brake pedal to maintain a stationary condition when your vehicle is on a slop. You should also select the manual mode when you want to drive slowly.

And lastly, make sure you get the oil and fluid changed every 40,000 kilometers as a way to keep it maintained.

Read More: Rpm Gauge Not Working on Hyundai Vehicles? Here’s What You Can Do!

Bottom Line

Your dual clutch transmission is an efficient, smooth and robust transmission. There are problems that tend to occur over time and because of misuse but when taken care of, it should be perfectly fine and last for over 10 years without any issue at all.