The Tiptronic gearbox transmission is a transmission that is a hybrid of manual and automatic functions, and is sometimes known as a ‘manumatic’ transmission. The Tiptronic gearbox transmission is predominately automatic, but allows the driver to select gears using a steering wheel mounted paddle system or a joystick in place of a gear stick by overriding the automatic gear selector. Often, however, the Tiptronic gearbox transmission will use on-board intelligence to make sensible decisions to protect the vehicle and its engine. These include moving up through gears 1 and 2 after starting the vehicle and moving back through gears when decelerating.

The Tiptronic gearbox transmission was originally designed by Porsche and its technology is used by various other car manufacturers. The benefits of using an automatic transmission mean that it is controlled by an ECU. This on-board computer can learn the driver’s driving style and adapt the gear changes accordingly.

Problems with the Tiptronic gearbox transmission can be caused by problems with the ECU. This on-board brain of the transmission uses sensors to make its decisions. Failure of a sensor can cause gearbox issues. Other problems may arise from faulty solenoids.