wiinky

Experienced occasional warm starting problems this Spring.
[ lottsa continuous crank, but takes several seconds to start ]
Connected the VAG-COM dongle. [ When in doubt, whip-it-out! ]
It said: "Engine Coolant Temp Sensor reads to high, intermittent".
Many posts on Audi world say: " Replace that malo sensor ".
This is an a 1999, V6-30 valve, AHA series engine.

My questions are:

How does the sensor come out?
What tool to use for removal?
How to avoid coolant spillage?
Should I burp it afterwards?

Thanks in advance for this great forum.

turbo510

You'll find the sensor behind the engine, near the throttle-body on the passenger side. Remove the two band clamps and take off the flex duct between the MAF sensor and the throttle duct, so you will have room to work. Remove the sensor's electrical connector in the usual way. Pull out the retainer clip but be careful not to loose it, then the sensor can be wiggled up and out. Have your new sensor right there so it can be put in without loosing too much coolant. I would then burp the system as you say, with the coolant tank lifted and the heater hose vent hole exposed.

AudiMick

Assuming the car is thoroughly cooled down, before you do this remove the coolant reservoir cap to release all pressure, then re-install it.

This will form a slight vacuum and prevent coolant from leaking when you remove the sensor.Don't forget to remove the old O ring and replace it.

wiinky

Thanks to Forum members for advice.

I decided to let Dealer service shop change it. Cost ... with parts, labor, & tax was $148.

After reading PITA problems over on the VW Passat Forum, figured I'd let the pro's get at the hard to reach sensor and it's not to user friendly "clip".

Today, after replacement, drove and started it many times with no problems.

First time to the Dealer in 4.5 years.
Must be getting old & lazy.