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98 VW Jetta MK3 P0722 & P0715 Fault Codes: Transmission Gear Shift Issue in Drive (D) - Fix & Parts Location

Model: 98 VW Fault Code: P0715 Posted: 2012-09-19 15:20

I own a 1999 VW Jetta Wolfsburg MK3 with a 2.0L automatic transmission. I've been experiencing persistent transmission issues, and the onboard diagnostic system has logged two trouble codes: P0722 (Output Speed Sensor Circuit No Signal) and P0715 (Input Turbine Speed Sensor A Circuit). These codes are specific to certain VW models and may be related to the 2207 or 3007 transmission control systems. The main symptom is that when placed in Drive (D), the vehicle starts in third gear and will not shift into any higher gears. I can manually shift from first to second to third, which works fine, but it fails to engage fourth gear — even at speeds up to 65 mph. The engine RPMs rise above 4,000 rpm without shifting, making highway driving impossible. I've already replaced the transmission fluid and filter (using an imported VW-compatible fluid), but the issue persists. I used only 3 quarts as recommended by my source, drained it slowly on a level surface, and re-filled — yet no improvement was observed. The problem appears to be mechanical or electrical in nature. I'm now considering whether these P0722 and P0715 codes indicate faulty sensors or wiring, rather than transmission wear. I'd like to know if these codes point to specific parts that need replacement (e.g., output speed sensor, turbine speed sensor), where to locate them in the 98-99 Jetta MK3, and whether a dealer service is necessary for diagnosis. Has anyone else experienced this exact issue on their VW Jetta or similar models? Any advice on diagnosing or fixing P0722/P0715 without replacing the entire transmission would be greatly appreciated.

Related fault codes

P0715P0722

Comments (2)

Anonymous 2012-09-20 15:16

Hi — if you haven't already, check the quality of your automatic transmission fluid by draining the entire amount from the transmission oil pan. VW transmissions have an internal oil strainer similar to engine oil filters. Cleaning this strainer and replacing the transmission fluid can resolve issues related to poor fluid flow to the valve body. A clogged or dirty strainer may interfere with hydraulic pressure needed for gear shifting, leading to driveability problems and multiple fault codes like P0722 and P0715. Try this first before assuming a sensor or electronic issue. Good luck!

Anonymous 2012-09-21 21:44

Thanks for the response. I've already replaced the transmission fluid and filter. Two issues arose: 1. I couldn't find genuine VW-specific transmission fluid, so I used an imported fluid labeled as compatible with multiple VW models. 2. My source advised using only 3 quarts — I followed that, warming the fluid by driving on a level surface before draining until it dripped slowly. However, after adding just 3 quarts and draining, the fluid kept coming out uncontrollably. I drained nearly one quart before stopping. I then re-added that quart, but the problem remains. The vehicle still won't shift into fourth gear in Drive (D). I'm now convinced it's an electrical issue — possibly a faulty sensor or wiring — rather than mechanical failure. I don’t want to replace the transmission if possible. I’m considering taking it to a dealer for a full fluid and filter service with proper diagnostics, especially since P0722 and P0715 are linked to speed sensors. Any further insight on whether these codes point to specific sensor replacements or wiring issues in 98-99 VW Jetta MK3 models would be very helpful.