Hi,
Just joined here because my '97 A4 1.8T seems to be running VERY hot, the gauges are much higher than in the past. Nothing has happened yet but it is worriesome. Advice? Thank you!

 

Whats the gauge reading? Normally the needle should be pointing straight up. On Very hot days you could see it creeping up but it shouldn't even go into the red.

More info please.

Jason

 

Jason thanks for your reply. I'm afraid I don't have much more info, I know the gauge should be straight up and a few years ago it started to creep over to higher temps on hot days when I was stuck in traffic and not moving. I brought it to a mechanic who came highly recommended (he works on Porche etc.) and it was through a friend so I trusted him. He changed the belts and fluids and various things and said it was fine. Same thing happened when I was stuck in traffic, needle creeping up. He said put on the AC and the secondary fan will cool engine. Worked like a charm for the past few years until this week. The needle on the gauge went so high it was almost in the red, but didn't get there only because I broke every rule in downtown traffic to get onto streets where I could move, and it took a very long time to come back down.
I've brought it to 4 different mechanics now and they have all "fixed" it...so I'm at a loss of what to do, what is wrong with it, and more importantly who to bring it to to get it fixed that won't cost me a fortune. Scared to drive it in case it does something awful like blow up or catch on fire. Any advice would be very welcome.

ruth

 

If its possible have the vehicle scanned for codes. A code would be very helpful in finding a starting point. Besides that we'd just be speculating. It could be anything from a sensor to a sticking thermostat.

I would definitely take it to a shop that's familiar with Audi. Even though other mechanics might be able to complete the job taking it to some one who sees these cars regularly and often will be your best bet.

Jason

 

thanks Jason, still trying to find reputable mechanic here in Toronto who really does know Audi -- most say they do but don't.

ruth

 

So I've got some names, can anyone tell me if they've had experience, and if so who is GOOD and who is not used to Audi. Thank you!

West Auto - Rob (Etobicoke)
Downtown Direct - Kris (Geary St. Toronto)
Bero Import - Mississauga
Eurospeed - Geary St. Toronto
GTech - Dragan (Etobicoke)
Central Import - King St. Toronto

Need to decide quickly! Thank you for your help!

ruth