The coolant temperature sensor is a very important component in any Volkswagen and it needs to be functioning properly to help ensure your engine is operating at the proper temperatures. However, as with any part of the car, it can degrade over time. Let’s talk about the signs you will see that will indicate that you should change your Volkswagen coolant temperature sensor.
How To Know You Need To Change Your Coolant Temperature Sensor
- Check Engine Light: The first symptom that might be an indication that the coolant temperature sensor is failing is when the CEL comes on. Although this light can mean a number of things, one of the more common reasons why it comes on is due to a bad coolant sensor. Whenever you see the CEL, it is advisable to seek the services of an experienced mechanic and have the car checked using a scan tool.
- Engine Overheating: The temperature sensor of the coolant system is used to keep an eye on the temperature of the engine and to avoid engine overheating. If the sensor is not functioning correctly, it may not give you a signal that the engine is overheating. When overheating is not remedied, this can result in serious damage to the engine of the vehicle in question. If you find that your engine is frequently overheating, then you should check the temperature sensor and replace it if faulty.
- Hard Starting Conditions: A faulty coolant temperature sensor is also known to interfere with the starting of your Volkswagen. This occurs when the sensor gives wrong temperature signals about the engine to the computer, the computer will then set the wrong air-fuel mixture. If you have a problem starting your VW, especially during winter, then the culprit could be the coolant temperature sensor.
- Fluctuating Temperature Gauge: When you see that the temperature gauge that is mounted on your dash is jumping all over the place, it is possible that you have a bad temperature sensor. Temperature data is sent to the gauge by the sensor, and if the sensor is giving out wrong values, the gauge will display different temperatures. This erratic behavior is a sure sign that something is wrong with the sensor or the connection to it.
- Radiator Fan Issues: The radiator fan is also controlled by the coolant temperature sensor. If the sensor is bad, the fan may not come on at all when it is supposed to, or it may run constantly. This can cause the fan to overwork, or sometimes overheat, due to the higher load it has to handle. When the radiator fan is behaving in a certain way that is not normal, there is a possibility that the coolant temperature sensor is the problem.
How To Replace The Sensor
The coolant sensor can be found near the thermostat housing or on the engine block depending on the model of the car you are using, you should check the manual to find the exact spot. To avoid any electrical problems, it is advisable to remove the battery before starting the replacement process. When removing the sensor, drain a small amount of coolant through the radiator drain valve so that there won’t be coolant spillage. Pull out the wiring harness from the sensor and unscrew the old sensor with the help of a wrench. Replace the old sensor with the new one and make sure that it is tightly bolted into the car, then reconnect the wires. Replace the coolant and ensure that the car does not leak. Last, join back the battery and switch on the engine.
Let Professionals Help You
Although the procedure for replacing the coolant sensor is not very complicated, it is crucial to understand when to turn to the professionals. If you are not trained for the job, it is better to turn to a professional mechanic. They know what needs to be done and how it has to be done since they possess all the diagnostic skills and tools.
You Can Trust Manfred’s Import Auto Experts With Your VW Maintenance
Manfred’s Import Auto established in 1986 
has been a one-stop shop for exotic European car owners in Cary, IL. At our garage, we have qualified mechanics who have ASE certification and who will make sure that you have a good experience with us.
We also serve Volkswagen drivers from Barrington, Fox River Grove, Lake Forest, Crystal Lake, and Lake Zurich, IL with our excellent service. So reach us now at 847-462-2100 to make your Volkswagen drive as smooth as possible.
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