Hey guys,

I have been lurking here for a while now and I have found a lot of useful info via the search. However, I can't seem to find anything on my latest problem.

I have a 96 A4 2.8L. The A/C blows fine - just not cold. I took it into the dealership to have it looked it and get a quote. They just told me that the coolant temperature sensor needs to be replaced and that there is a small leak. Grand total ----- $1,775!!!! wow

I see on ECStuning they have a Coolant Temperature Sensor with O-Ring for $15.95. The service rep tells me it is "labor intensive" - which is why it would cost so much.

My question is this - will your average European auto mechanic be able to do this job? Are they able to patch the leak or does something need to be replaced? I know dealerships are a ripoff but I have no idea how this can be THIS much and would also like to have an idea of what this SHOULD cost before I start calling around to the private mechanics (I just moved and unfortunately had to leave my foreign car specialist shop in Madison...)

 

where are you located?

 

You can change the coolant temp sensor in less than a half hour. Audiworld has tech tutorials on the change, although they are for the 2.8 30 valve and the 1.8t engines afaik. Try searching the 12 valve forum over there too.

 

If your coolant temp sensor was bad, you would have a lot of other problems, not just the ac blowing warm. I dont think it would cause the problem you are having.

Is the CEL giving you a code for bad temp sensor? If not, its probably OK.

So, you probably just need the AC leak fixed. I would think you could replace the whole AC system for that price, you might want to shop around.

 

I don't see the correlation between A/C not cold and a bad temp sensor, like jestnomen said the sensor isn't difficult. As for as the AC goes it probably just needs recharging or a leak in the lines. Where is this "small leak" that would cost 1,775? Sounds like BS to me.

 

There are places tha charge $50/pound for R134a. I do not think you have a low pressure valve.

 

Thanks for the replies guys. I'm located in Wisconsin - so its just starting to get warm here lol. I talked to a mechanic who said he will recharge and look for leaks for $95....assuming there is a leak, is this something that can just be patched?

 

well, usually leaks are from o-rings in the connections wearing out.

It may be a little expensive to fix, but like a few hundred all together with freon and all, not 1700.

you can always use the 450 air system.

4 windows down at 50 mph.

 

some of those freeon cans has leak fixing things

 

The cans also contain a guage and lubricant.