Is it a good idea to use the manual mode in my automatic when towing?
I have recently bought a 2014 Skoda Yeti 2.0 TDI with a DSG gearbox and wish to tow a caravan (21ft overall). I have heard that the DSG system can be a little 'fragile' and towing with an automatic can overheat the oil. So is it a good idea to use the manual gear change when accelerating or going up and down hills? Is there anything else I can do to ensure minimum wear/damage to the gearbox and clutch?
Asked on 18 April 2017 by David N Kidd
Answered by
Honest John
I understand your logic. But using the paddles you can keep the car in the optimum gear without heating up the DSG clutch pack that (very basically) serves the same purpose as a torque converter. But you need to be careful about weights. Assuming 4WD you don't need to worry too much about the caravan club's 85% advisory limit, but you do need the caravan MTPLN be well within the Yeti's towing limit which is between 1800kg and 2100kg depending on drivetrain.
Similar questions
I'm thinking of buying a 2017 Skoda Octavia. Are there still problems with the six-speed automatics?
I have a Jaguar S-Type 2.7-litre diesel automatic. In event of a breakdown, which seems quite likely, is it possible to tow this car without causing damage to the transmission?
Car manufacturers are continuing to manufacture diesel cars despite all the adverse publicity about diesel. Nearly all motoring websites continue to recommend diesel as the best buy in versions of automatic,...
Related models
Unique styling. Solid build. Excellent petrol engines including frugal yet peppy 1.2 TSI. Good space in the back. Frugal 1.6 TDI Greenline can return 60mpg+.
Elsewhere on 
.jpg)
