Stuck in first gear, 2003 jetta 1.8
 

Hi there, you seem to be knowledgeable on VW trannies.
Mine is out of warrenty and i have issues that 2 tranny guys cant figure out, so, maybe you can help.
I have a:
2003 VW Jetta 1.8T (Bora)
the car is ok in reverse and park, but when i put it in drive or 2 or 3 or 4, it only stays in first gear. I can not seem to get it out of first gear when attempting to drive it. The check engine light is on.
Any ideas?
Your help is appreciated.
thx garnetgrey@rogers.com

When you step on the gas, do the RPMS go up like the engine is trying to work but the car still doesn't shift into gear? I think if that's the issue, then it's not the engine.

HOWEVER....

There is a recall on the ignition coils. I have a 2003 1.8T. I'm not due for the replacement until next year. VW will send out a letter to you for when you can go into a dealer and get the coils replaced. However, if you have the check engine light going off, I believe you can get them to do it sooner. I'd call your dealer about that.

I'm no car expert, so I may be blowing smoke, but maybe you can't get out of 1st because the engine doesn't have enough power (I suppose only if the RPMS don't go up when you step on the gas), which is why the check engine light is going off. Either way, you should get that issued checked if you've got the warning light.

Stuck in first gear 2003 jetta 1 8
 

Great. I will have to go check it out. After reading the article, I noticed it was for Canada. Has anyone seen one at a US dealer yet?

thats great to see all these posts, i have tried the ignition coil and that failed, i am leaning towards the tiptronic switch which happens to be part of the shifter. any one agree?

if you CEL is on you might just want to get it read then you will have a good start point. Oh and you have an auto so theres your real problem.