3.2 V6 Fault Code advice

[apole]

Hi guys,

Been getting a fault code that keeps cropping up that I'd appreciate some advice on.

It's related to engine temperature, although as the car runs well, warms up fast and never overheats (stays at just under 90 on the gauge), I'm thinking it's more like the sensor.

Error is here:

1 Fault Found:
18613 - Performance Malfunction in Cooling System
P2181 - 000 - - - Intermittent
Freeze Frame:
Fault Status: 00101000
Fault Priority: 0
Fault Frequency: 7
Reset counter: 135
Mileage: 69489 km
Time Indication: 0
Date: 2012.05.04
Time: 15:48:33
Freeze Frame:
RPM: 1504 /min
Mass Air / Rev.: 267.1 mg/str
Temperature: 79.5°C
Part Throttle
Temperature: 31.5°C
Speed: 57.0 km/h
Readiness: 0000 0000


It doesn't trigger any fault lights on the dash but as it often comes back I'm wondering if it would be sensible to change the sensor now, rather than leaving it to get worse and maybe causing a bigger issue when I don't need it.

As the car shows no sign of a faulty thermostat or pump I'm feeling the sensor or connector/wiring is most likely at fault.

Do you think this is correct and worth changing the sensor, or just leaving it alone?

Thanks in advance.

Andy

[Guest 2]

Can't help much Andy but heres the official RossTech diagnosis here - 18613/P2181/008577 - Ross-Tech Wiki

[gupsterg]

Can't help much Andy but heres the official RossTech diagnosis here - 18613/P2181/008577 - Ross-Tech Wiki

oopps sorry Chris for repeat your info left on screen so long I forgot to press submit...

Hi Andy,

You seen this good post by JoshA6

3.2 FSI Heater

As you got two temperature readings don't which you would use

I think daveplyjeep change sensor to resolve 3.2 FSI Heater

[apole]

Hi guys,

Thanks for the help and links.

Gup, 2 temperatures are down to the one in the error code and what the gauge in the car reads. I would think the code is being triggered either because the ECU thinks due to the time and distance travelled on that journey the car should have warmed up to normal temperature by then so posts an error (lazy thermostat) , or the sensor is not getting the right info out.

If you didn't see the log, you'd never know as the car drives well, warms up fast, doesn't overheat and runs fine, heater works a treat too.

Coolant is nice and clean with healthy pink colour, and never uses any.

I'll find out how much a new sensor is (or if there's an easy way to test it), rockauto list ones between £5 and £12, will check in UK as easier. That is easier to change than a thermostat. Could be the stat is getting a bit lazy with age (bit like me ).

Just wanna get rid of the error for peace of mind in case it leads onto something that will cause a breakdown.

Thanks again.

Andy

[joshA6]

i'm sure it is the G62 temp sensor. Never had a VW where I have not had to change it. No way of testing it, just replace. If you do it right, you don't even have to drain all the fluid (just a little top up). If its not that, then probably the thermostat, but i doubt it.

[apole]

Thanks guys. Will try my local dealer for a new one. Does anyone have any recommendations for a dealer that does mail order?

[Guest 2]

Belfast Audi definitely do mail order parts

[MFGF]

Both Stoke Audi and Stafford Audi have online ordering too.

[apole]

Thanks guys,

Out of interest is there a way I can look up the part number or is G62 enough? Found the sensor, it's under the front engine cover so easy to get to. Thanks again.

I believe the part number is 06A919501A, it's a black 2 wire sensor.

Local dealer wants £40 inc a new clip and O ring, can see plenty of OEM ones much less but not sure of quality. Will check a few more sources before deciding, rather stick with genuine.

Andy

[apole]

Hi all,

Just in case it helps anyone else the ECT sensor is part number 06A919501A, from the docs I found this is common across all the A6 range. It's either grey or black in colour and has 2 wires.

I bought a german Hans Pries version in the end, very easy to fit and no need to drain the coolant. Just make sure the engine is cold and remove any pressure by taking off the header tank cap, then replacing.

I have a Meyle PDF listing all the other models covered by this sensor if anyone needs.

No coolant leaked out during replacement, make sure to lightly lube the new O ring before fitting.

Cleared the codes in VCDS and checked I was getting a reading from it. Now time will tell if it resolves the message.