Electronic faults:
*Damage to selector lever wiring harness
* Malfunction of the electronic transmission control module (TCM)
* Damage to the selector position sensor
* Poor connection between selector lever and TCM
Mechanical faults:
* Worn or damaged selector cable
* Sticking gear shift mechanism
* Damage to selector gears
*Breakage of the return spring
* Worn or damaged selector lever
Symptoms of automatic transmission selector malfunctions in Passat B5:
* Difficulty shifting gears
* Spontaneous gear changes
* Failure to engage the desired gear
* Selector position indicator does not show correct position
*Transmission does not go into Park (P) or Neutral (N)
*Display selector related fault codes
Diagnostics and repair:
* Read fault codes using diagnostic scanner
* Checking the wiring harness and electrical connections
* Checking sensors and switches
* Check and, if necessary, replace the selector cable
* Disassembly and inspection of the gear shift mechanism
* Replacement of faulty components
* Reset transmission adaptation settings (if necessary)
Note: Troubleshooting the automatic transmission selector in the Passat B5 should be performed by a qualified mechanic with experience working with automatic transmissions.