Multitronic is a stepless transmission developed by Audi, designed to offer the fuel efficiency of a manual with the convenience of an automatic. Instead of a traditional push-belt, it uses a multi-plate chain running between two variable-diameter pulleys to handle higher torque loads. It was eventually phased out due to reliability issues and the superior performance of dual-clutch gearboxes.
The customer is complaining about a shudder on takeoff, which is a classic symptom of a failing Multitronic control module.
Many technicians refuse to rebuild these transmissions, opting instead for a complete replacement or a manual swap due to the high failure rate of the internal chain and variators.
Related terms
Continuously variable transmission
An automatic gearbox that uses a belt and variable-width pulleys instead of fixed gears.
CVT
The abbreviation CVT stands for continuously variable transmission, a gearbox using belts and pulleys.
DCT
A dual-clutch transmission uses two separate clutches for odd and even gear sets to enable lightning-fast shifts.
Transmission
The mechanical or hydraulic assembly that adapts engine power to drive the wheels.