DSG to ZF8 Swap

ZF8 HP55A Transmission Swap Audi C7 S6/S7 – A Complete Guide

This guide provides a detailed and organized overview of how I replaced the factory DL501 transmission with a ZF8HP in my 2013+ Audi C7 S6/S7. As of today,today the car runs and drives great. The overall experience is much better, and this is now what I consider the best mod I have done to the car.

Introduction

First off, I’ll say this swap has been quite a journey. I learned a lot about things I was previously unfamiliar with and gained a much deeper understanding of my car and how it works. I’m glad I took on this project because it allowed me to do something different with my build while also helping others make this swap feasible. For anyone that does it after me, it will be simple. This has been a hot topic in the community for a while, many people saying or implying that it could not be done. Not only did I set out to prove it can be done, I am here to prove that anyone can do it and it will not cost a leg or an arm. In fact, it is cheaper than replacing a DSG clutch and way cheaper than replacing a DSG. We will not get too into the WHY, but we will address the HOW.

I will not detail the removal or installation of the transmission itself—there are manuals and videos for that. Instead, I’ll cover the hardware, wiring, coding, immobilizer management, and essential tools, along with tips on where to get ODIS and how to adapt everything. I am not a mechanic.

Hardware Requirements

The hardware part of this swap is fairly straightforward compared to many other transmission swaps. Essentially, you remove S6/S7 parts and replace them with A6/A7 parts. Everything bolts right up...up—no custom adapters or tunnel hammering required—making it "simple" compared to other transmission swaps. Unlike nearly other ZF8 Swap, we do NOT need to use a standalone TCM such as the Turbolamik ($2500) If you see what some people go through to put ZF8 transmissions in other cars, you would agree we have it easy.

SpecialSPECIAL Note:NOTE: TRANSCOOLER You- needYOU aWILL transNEED coolerTO fromGET anA A6/A7,TRANSCOOLER, theI USED AN AFTERMARKET COOLER. YOU CANNOT USE YOUR S6/S7 oneTRANSMISSION won’tCOOLER mountTHE up.BRACKET WILL NOT MOUNT UP. YOU CAN GET A6/A7 TRANSMISSION COOLER AND LINES.

Bellhousing

Additional BoltHardware Notes

- a look at this picture of DSG VS ZF8 bellhousing bolt locations for reference

ZF8:

Reference Images:DSG:

Tools Required

Wiring Adjustments

RepinYou must repin the DL501 transmission connector to match the ZF8HP layout. Correct pin assignment ensures the TCU can communicate properly with the transmission.

Pinout for ZF8HP.2013 Audi S6 Using A6/A7 Transmission Code NNT

Pin Wire Color

1 Blue/Black

2 Blue/Grey

5 Orange/Black

6 Orange/Grey

8 Green/Purple

9 Black/Purple

11 Grey/White

13 Red/Grey

14 Brown

15 Green/Yellow
Unused:




Unused Wires

Brown/Grey,Grey
Red,
Red
Green

Note: Wire colors may vary by model year or region. Double-check your wiring diagram or verify continuity to confirm where each wire goes. Comment below if you need help.

Helpful Resource
YouTube Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GRNb2nNMf0M
(This Transmissionexplains Repiningthe transmission connector repinning process in detail.)

Immobilizer Management

AlignThese cars run on Immo V/BCM2, so you must ensure your TCU,new ECU,transmission TCU and cluster.the ECU/cluster are aligned. If your powerclass does not match, or if you have physically changed control modules (such as the transmission), you will need to adapt or disable the immobilizer:

1. Adaptation with ODIS Service
- Use ODIS-S with a valid GEKO oraccount anto emulatoradapt the TCU, immobilizer, and cluster if necessary.

Emulator2. LinkAlternative Solutions
- An emulator, such as those from abitres or a VAG-TCU Immobilizer Emulator(physical), can bypass the immobilizer.
- Some tuners or services can do Immo-Off or IMMO TRANSFER using your DL501 EEPROM data on the AL551, although those appear less common. ODIS adaptation is generally easiest to get ahold of for the average joe.

Why Powerclass Matters
Powerclass is part of the immobilizer handshake. If the ecu powerclass and the powerclass the immo is looking for do not match, you will trip the ECU immobilizer. For example, flashing RS7 software onto an S6 ECU sets powerclass to RS7. Unless you manually match it to the S6 BCM, you will have an immobilizer conflict. If you are using my modified file, powerclass is already matched to C7 CEUC engine which is what the immo handshake is looking for.

Swap Process

must

ODIS-Ere-insert Flashor Guidepaste the proper coding:

- For ECU/TCU/ABS coding, you can try using my provided long coding if you have a C7 with air suspension and sport diff removed. Adjust if needed.
-- For non-ECU/TCU/ABS modules, use your original coding from a previous Auto-Scan.

Long Coding

Below is what worked for my C7 Audi S6 (with air suspension and no sport diff). If you see errors like “Module Incorrectly Coded,” you may need to tweak these (comment below for help):

Engine Coding: 1A2A003265460A0E1000
Auto Transmission Coding: 000001
ABS Coding: 65A64F01A665F2805B00

For the ABS module you must click Security access then wait for the bubble to pop up and enter the alternative coding password mine was S11820 then you can go to coding and paste the coding and it should accept.

Special Note:

Currently, my engine module shows the following code, which does not affect operation:
4715 - No Communication with Instrument Cluster
U0155 00 [00100111] - -
[Lost Communication With Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC) Control Module]
Not Confirmed - Tested Since Memory Clear

I plan to resolve this using SVM in ODIS-S Immoon Guidethe Instrument and Engine modules. If that does not work, the code can be masked or disabled in the tune. It has not caused any issues or effects on driving.The instrument cluster also communicates and operates fine.

Sport

Let Diffme Deleteclarify (if: needed)

If UNPLUG

For more information, see this TGK SportMotorsports DiffYouTube Deletevideo discussing the sport diff delete process:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T6rFej3PY9c

Enabling Paddle Shifters

Active.
-

Repeat for any other features, such as gear display, that you want active.

Make sure all three connectors on your gear selector assembly are plugged in. If you only have two connected, you are missing one.

Where to Get ODIS

(for

Transmissionimmobilizer Tuning

and component protection services) before paying for any logins or scheduling adaptations. You can check the status here or on their WhatsApp https://status.vw-geko.com/

Use HPthese Tuners,services at your own risk. In SOME cases, someone will remote into your computer to do the login. If you are purchasing from AliExpress you do have the ability to dispute if there is an issue. Make sure that you inquire and confirm immobilizer adaptation is active/available before purchasing.

TRANSMISSION TUNING

- I opted to tune my transmission using HPTuners, which offers a user-friendly solution for ZF8 transmissions. (This is only if you know wtf you're doing or know someone that does)
- You could also choose from one of the well-known ZF8 TCU tuners (e.g., JHM, ETSpec) to get a TCU tune.
- Ultimately, if your car is highly modified, you will need a TCU tune. The stock TCU expects certain RPM and torque limits, so exceeding them can trigger transmission codes or ETSpec.a “Transmission Malfunction” warning. This doesn’t harm anything; but it will make you shit bricks if you didnt know that it just means you need a TCU tune that accommodates higher rev limits and torque levels or to adjust your ecu tune accordingly. If you happen to be running below stock RS6/RS7 power levels and using stock rev limit you technically dont need a transmission tune yet.

IF YOU HAVE A C7.5 YOU CANNOT USE MY FILES

YOU WILL NEED TO SOURCE A TCU tuneFILE isTHAT requiredMATCHES forTHE highGENERATION powerOF builds.

YOUR

C7.5:TRANSMISSION DoAND notAN useECU theseFILE files.THAT You’ll need properIS C7.5 RS7 baseAND andMODIFY adjustedTHE powerPOWERCLASS class.TO C7.5 S6/S7 ACCORDINGLY.

Files

File

READ

IT IF YOU GET LOST

Costs

Below is what I spent while trying to keep this swap budget-friendly. Your total may differ based on availability, upgrades, or professional assistance:

Item Cost
ZF8HP55 Breakdown

Transmission

Transmission:(NNT $Code) 400

Torque Converter:Converter $(RS7 or TDI) 300
A6 ShifterShift Assembly:Assembly $70
A6 Mount:Transmission $Mount 60
A6 Crossbrace:Cross $Brace 100
A6 Rear Diff:Differential $160
A6 Axles:Rear $Axles 100
Misc
Miscellaneous (Tools/Fluids): $1000

Total:
Total $2190
  

Disclaimer

The costs and methods listed here reflect my personal experience completing this swap. Your expenses and approach may vary. This guide is basedfor oninformational mypurposes personalonly, experience.and Doyou yourshould ownfollow research.all relevant safety precautions, consult with professionals where needed, and verify the compatibility of parts before undertaking any modifications. I am not responsible for any issues that may arise from performing this swap.

Dynospectrum does not endorse or support this transmission swap in any capacity. Please do not contact them for assistance with the swap. EverythingThey specialize in ECU flashing software, not transmission or engine swap support. That said, they were extremely helpful with the ECU side of this project. As always, everything you do to your car is at your own risk.

Credits

This

• project would not have been possible without the assistance and insights from the following individuals and resources:

  - QCrazy


-
• Audiquattro44

-
• PRJ,PRJ
  - Dynospectrum

-
• Christian O

-
• 813garage

-
• FE Performance

-
• Artemesia

-
• Projectlsaudia4

-
• Sleepertuned

-
• MWELL

-
• TGK Motorsports

-
• Shane Horning

-
• AudiNeil

OriginalThank Post:you StolenS6to every one who helped in any way big or small. With the right tools, patience, and know-how, a ZF8 swap can transform an Audi C7 S6/S7 into a much more reliable and durable animal.

IF you appreciated this swap guide follow me on Audizineinstagram @stolens6