I have a 98 A4 quattro that runs hot (at least the gauge is higher) when exiting the interstate and entering city traffic. The range is normally at the 12:00 position on the gauge, and increases one full index mark to the right when in traffic. I have replaced the thermostat (during timing belt change), the water pump, the fan clutch, and the aux electric fan. there is some doubt that the elect fan is functioning on both the high and low speed settings. A laser temp reader shows water temp in the upper hose at 205 when the range is at the upper end on the gauge. a 187 degree thermostat is in place. any ideas?

 

radiator clog?

 

Do you have VAG-COM, or access to one? you can check your temp with that.. its possible that it could be the temp sensor..


EDIT:
If your temp sensor was bad, it would trip the Check Engine Light.. so disregard, unless you have the light on

 

I thought we used 87 degree themos.. not 187.

 

scratch that.. im talking C.. you are talking F....


This doesnt seem like a sensor problem.. most likely a coolant/coolant system "problem"