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Mystery problems with the cooling system! (1998 2.0L manual)

124 Views 9 Replies 3 Participants Last post by  Smileybug
Hey everyone, I've finally encountered a problem that I can't solve and desperately need some help. A family member keeps referring me to the Chilton's, but that's as useful as a paperweight.

Issue 1: Between 2 and 3 weeks ago, I noticed that my blue engine light (solid/cold) no longer comes on. I've had no issues starting the car, nor issues while running. I just figured the blue bulb was burnt out.

Issue 2: However, a few days ago, the dreaded red coolant light came on. Not flashing - that's an easy one. Engine overheating; I immediately pulled over, but coolant was full. Managed to make it to work by letting the highway air cool the engine and the light didn't come back on until I had to idle while turning into the parking lot. That's when I noticed my fans weren't kicking on at all.

What I have done:
checked coolant levels - full
checked fuses in dash - fine
checked fuses on top of battery - fine
checked fans - spin freely/no obstructions
water pump - new/replaced one year ago

Unfortunately, this is where my knowledge gets vague. And I actually have no clue if the two issues I listed above are even related. I've seen recommendations to check multiple things that I can't find because I can't find a diagram of their locations. Or to test things with no explanation on how to test them. Can anyone give me the next couple troubleshooting steps? Maybe tell me where I can find the radiator fan relay? Is there something obvious to try out first?

I hate to say it, but talk to me like I'm 5. I know exhaust systems, fuel lines, and everything non-mechanical..
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Basics: year (1998), model (New Beetle), engine (2.0L) and trans (manual 5 speed).

Have you scanned for trouble codes?
Here is a overview, of things to check; when encountering a overheating issue:


That is a good troubleshooting guide for the fans. I would start there, since you know they aren't coming on. Have you scanned for any codes? And if you want a useful service manual, get your hands on a Bentley Service manual for the car. They are worlds better than the Chiltons/Haynes books.
Basics: year, model, engine and trans of the VW your working with?

Have you scanned for trouble codes?
Oh, sorry. Thought I was in the beetle forum. Definitely a beetle.

And I don't have a scanner, so I haven't the slightest clue what codes it's throwing.
Review, the above video; very specific things to check, as the engine heats up and this should help you, pinpoint the problem?

That is a good troubleshooting guide for the fans. I would start there, since you know they aren't coming on. Have you scanned for any codes? And if you want a useful service manual, get your hands on a Bentley Service manual for the car. They are worlds better than the Chiltons/Haynes books.
Thank, I will definitely look into that Bentley service manual!

I don't have any way of scanning for codes unfortunately. But I'm having trouble following that guide. It looks to be only ac condenser related. And how do I know which mk I have?
Review, the above video; very specific things to check, as the engine heats up and this should help you, pinpoint the problem?
The video would be great, but my fans don't kick on at all. Do you know of any videos to troubleshoot my issue? Or one that gives me the next things to test?
Well, a basic scan tool; is not expensive to purchase, you could also rent one from most auto parts stores for free. Did you review the above video, i posted above (?); 'exovcds", goes through things step by step with specific checks and confirmation, as to how things are working, to find the cause of the overheating issue.
There is a link in what I shared that goes over fan troubleshooting: https://pics.tdiclub.com/data/516/A4_Coolant_Fan_testing_Rev_7.pdf
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