Quick help needed, VAG 1.9tdi

[jason61c]

I've a random problem on a vw sharan. 2003 1.9tdi.

the engine temp(water) gauge seems to be all over the shop, not sitting at 90 like normal. It moves up and down from 60ish to 90 at will and at speed.

Spends most of its time at 70ish on the gauge.

Using VCDS lite it seems that the gauge doesn't match the temp shown. Even with the oil at 100deg C it will randomly drop. Oil temp is constantly stable once warm. It did have a fault of temp sensor showing but I cleared it and its not appeared in the past 150miles even though the above is happening.

A few times its caused a strange loss of power, say 3 times in the past 400miles.

Is this related? MAF values seem normal under load. The car starts easily and pulls smoothly.

Sticky thermostat maybe?


I'm suppose to be taking the family to France very shortly frown

[wiliferus]

I've always associated random water temp with head gasket failure. Have you checked your water reservoir for chocolate mouse?

Edited cos of stupid phone autocorrect!

[jason61c]

wiliferus said:

I've always associated random water temp with head gasket failure. Have you checked your water reservoir for chocolate mouse?

Edited cos of stupid phone autocorrect!

No signs at all of HG failure.

[GlenMH]

What state is the radiator in? Have the fins between the waterways corroded?

[jason61c]

Its in good condition. Going to replace the water temp sensors today and if this doesn't help i'll change the thermostat. Simple things first!