2017 A4 S-Tronic Hesitation and Rough Shifts from a Stop

ClearTheCode guidance (Audi · Buying & ownership)

Summary: For 2017 A4 S-Tronic Hesitation and Rough Shifts from a Stop, work through these steps on your 2016+ vehicle:

1. Confirm the symptom — note when it happens (cold start, highway, after fuel fill, etc.).
2. Scan codes — save all pending/stored DTCs; don't clear until you've recorded them.
3. Check TSBs & recalls — look up your VIN for open campaigns and known fixes.
4. Inspect the obvious — related fuses, connectors, fluid level, and recent repairs.
5. Test the common fix — follow model-specific service procedures; one change at a time.
6. Escalate if needed — burning smell, no brakes, overheating, or stalling in traffic → shop visit.

Owner reported: My 2017 Audi A4 2.0T Quattro with the S-Tronic transmission has been acting up lately. When accelerating from a stop, especially in traffic, there's a noticeable hesitation before it engages, almost like a lurch. Sometimes, the shifts between 1st and 2nd gear feel pretty rough, not smooth like it used to be.

I've got about 65,000 miles on it. I'm worried this could be a major transmission problem…

This is educational guidance, not a substitute for hands-on diagnosis.