Have you observed your Volkswagen’s temperature gauge fluctuating or warning lights coming on? If there is a thermometer or temperature gauge icon on the dashboard, then the coolant temperature could be the problem. The coolant temperature sensor monitors the engine temperature and relays the information to the car’s computer on how hot or cold the engine is. This information enables the car to determine how much fuel should be supplied to the engine, when to switch on the cooling fans and how to control the emission. If it fails, your Volkswagen may think that the engine is either too cold or too hot and this will throw everything out of balance.
Symptoms That May Indicate a Bad Coolant Temperature Sensor
- Malfunctioning Temperature Gauge: One of the symptoms is when your temperature gauge is rising and falling or it reads low when the engine is hot. If the sensor fails to provide accurate data, the temperature displayed on the dashboard will not be accurate.
- Warning Light: A damaged coolant sensor is one of the common causes of a warning light. It is recommended to take your Volkswagen to a professional mechanic who will diagnose the problem using the trouble codes from a diagnostic scan.
- Engine Overheating: If the sensor fails completely and the cooling fan does not come on, the engine can overheat. This is one of the most dangerous signs because it may cause damage to the engine if it is not addressed in good time.
What Happens If You Ignore the Problem?
If a car is driven with a defective coolant temperature sensor, it can create a chain reaction of other issues starting from engine overheating to other costly engine problems. When you ignore it, the problem can worsen, and your car’s condition can deteriorate or even break down completely.
How the Sensor Gets Replaced
Replacing the sensor may seem like a basic task, but it is a job that is best done by a professional who knows how your Volkswagen car works. The first step is to diagnose which sensor is faulty through the use of diagnostic equipment. From there, the cooling system is drained just enough to allow for the removal of the sensor without having coolant spillage all over the place. The old sensor is then replaced with a new one, and the right sealing parts are put in place to prevent leakage. After that, the coolant is refilled or changed if necessary, and the car is started and all its systems are tested. A test drive may be performed to ensure that the problem has been fixed.
Why It’s Preferable to Hire a Professional for a Replacement
The sensor is typically mounted close to the engine block or the thermostat housing. If it is not installed correctly or the threads of the sensor are broken, you can have coolant leaks or other issues. A certified mechanic understands where to look when diagnosing the problem, how to diagnose the sensor before installing a new one, and how to fill and bleed the cooling system. Professionals also use OEM or quality parts so that the new sensor that is installed lasts for a long time.
Why You Should Turn to Motor City Euro Repair for Your Volkswagen Sensor Replacements
If you need assistance with your Volkswagen’s coolant temperature sensor replacement, Motor City Euro Repair is the best place to visit. We are located in Farmington, MI and provide services to Volkswagen owners from Brighton, Detroit, and Ann Arbor. Our ASE-certified technicians are familiar with European autos and are capable of handling Volkswagen cars in the right manner. We don’t just change parts; we diagnose and identify whether the sensor really has a problem before anything is changed.
Our service is without hidden fees and we do not perform any services that are not necessary. We make sure to enlighten the client on what is happening and present options that are within his/her price range. If you are seeking a dealership alternative service center that has a passion for quality repairs as well as customer satisfaction, you’ve come to the right place. Please contact us today and arrange for your service.
