Volkswagen Repair: 02 jetta 1.8, malfunction indicator light, transmission control module

Question
QUESTION: my jetta has 112000 miles on it.  i bought it used and when i start the transmission was engaging untill around 6000rpm through 2nd.  it has been driving fine lately.  now it seems that the tramission light is on.  i have no clue about the vw transmissions.  could you give me some advice.  the local dealers want to start with changing the fluid and go from there.  i am apprehensive about that because the fluid change is around $250.  i do not want to spend money on things that i may not need.  what do you think?
Jason
ANSWER: Hi Jason. The Orange light that is rectangular is a malfunction indicator light. This is both for the Trans and the Engine. If the light is on then a fault is stored. A 1.8T that year has both the 4speed and the 5speed Trans. The 5 speed has problems withe valve body and the transmission control module. The 4SPEED Trans has a problem with slipping clutches and a entire transmission is needed. Also The four speed Trans has a problem down shifting to first caused by the tcm. Does your shifter have a slot next to it for a manual tiptronic shift a + or - sign to the right of the chrome shift trim? Or better yet send me the vin# and the exact fault for the light. Has the vehicle been into the dealer? Has it been diagnosed? The fluid change is rarely the cause of the Trans problem or a light unless a torque converter lock up fault is present or your Trans fluid is low and leaking. Please keep me informed and let me know the exact problem and a little more info.

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QUESTION: i am not sure of the fault.  I have not sent it to a dealer yet.  the vin is   3vwse69m22m184695.  the light has gone off.  I do have the tiptronic transmission.  

Answer
ok you have a Eyp trans code a jacto type 5 speed trans. The problems with these trans are the solenoid valves. These are most common and they cause you trans to go into limp mode. If you have a mil light on then you need to see the fault. Do not change the fluid till you know what the fault is you will be wasting g your money. If the fluid is burned or black then you need a trans. If the fluid is red or reddish brown then your ok. More than likely our going to need a solenoid for the Trans or a valve body. Thats even if you have a fault for the trans. 300 reasons for a mil light to illuminate on your car. Keep me up to date and tell me what fault you have or more detail of the trans problem.