MattDesign

I think I have my first problem on my 2000 coupe.

This morning on the way to work, the engine coolant level light came on, and the temperature of the engine went all the way to H. I pulled over, let the engine cool, and checked the coolant level on the expansion tank. It was below the MIN level, so I filled it with water, and drove 2-3 miles to get to work.

I don't think I'm leaking anywhere, so I'm not entirely sure what the problem is. But I have few questions.

1) Is there a way to fill up the radiator directly? I did not see a radiator cap anywhere. Do I just fill it up from the expansion tank?

2) If it is the water pump that has gone bad, how much should I expect for parts/service?

Any suggestions would be helpful,

Thanks.

JustJeff

Water pump, thermostat, timing belt, belt tensioner is anywhere from the low of $900 to $1500

MattDesign

My car has 52k miles on it now, I bought it with 51k on it about a month ago.

After filling up the expansion tank with water, I did not lose any of the liquid from there, but the engine temperature still went up after 1-2mile of driving.

Are you suggesting I should do the timing belt with this water pump replacement? Would water pump replacement alone cost $900?

kodeTT

If you just bought it, you should take it back to the dealer, unless of course, you bought it from a third party. If that is the case, you may have to do a complete flush and if the timing belt hasn't been serviced, you should do all that as well.

MattDesign

Thanks for the input.

The water was just to get me to work in case I lost too much coolant. I think I don't have a leak, but I was just being cautious.

I am taking the car to a garage this afternoon to have it diagosed. I'm gathering as much info here on the forum before I go there.

Thanks again for the info.

bubba j

If you don't see any leaks, then you probably lost some water by evaporation. Adding water will return the coolant to proper concentration.

I had to do this at about 49k. Dealer checked system and found no leaks. I was maybe 200 mls low and this was triggering the coolant warning.

So, your mileage is consistent with needing to top off with a little water. It's not cool that your dealer didn't check the coolant level before selling it, but perhaps they were giving Audi too much credit for the "sealed" system.

However, I never experienced any temperature problems. Since you are overheating, you need to take it back to the dealer or garage.

bubba j

Water pump alone was about $485. Timing belt and tensioners was about $460. Clearly he wasn't giving me any kind of package discount, but his prices were good.

The reason to do the timing belt is that you might get a discount for doing it now, and having it done prior to 60k or 75k (depending on source) appears to be a good idea. There is anecdotal evidence of breakage prior to the scheduled 105k and this is a very, very bad thing.

JustJeff

Yes, at this point do it all, if the pump is bad.