VW Passat transmission

My 1997 VW Passat with tiptronic transmission has 200,000 miles. My mechanic says my transmission is worn out, it won’t go up a hill. Can I drive it permantely in the tiptronic, I’m afraid to try it.

Has your mechanic thoroughly diagnosed it?
It’s not just overdue for a filter and fluid service?

It’s the regular transmission he said was worn out. I don’t know if the tiptronic works.