New guy wants to show off and has some questions

Spyder4801 · #1 (**permalink**) 12-27-2007, 11:14 PM

How it going guys ive justs bought a 03 VW jetta 1.8T 122K, and wanted to know what u guys think....

(Trust me it's not staying stock)

It even came w/ a bullet hole(to the right and below the liensePlate)

This is the first time ive owend car(allways had a truck), only problem is that i bought the car yesterday and the engine llight came on today, I took it to AutoZone and got the code and this is what came up......

Code: p2181

Definition
Cooling System Prformance

Explanation
Low engine Coolant Level

Probable causes
1:-failed radiator or water pump
2:-Check ECT Sensor

Checked the coolant level looks normal(I guess) and its not overheating.

Has anyone had this code or is there a known problem w/ that sensor?

I just bought the car and i want to save up for Preformace parts not spend all my money on just keeping it running.

monkey54it · #2 (**permalink**) 01-01-2008, 09:08 AM

from what i have read some people have been able to lose that code by changing the temp sensor and others have had to replace the thermostat. the temp sensor replacement is really easy and inexpensive, but once you have done it you should have someone with a vagcom clear the code. if the code comes back you may want to replace the thermostat at that point. since we are on the cooling system discussion, has the waterpump in your jetta been replaced yet? and the timing belt? if not i would seriously consider setting aside the money to have those items taken care of. 02 1.8t had the cooling sensor go bad and nearly 2 months(2-3k miles) afterwards my waterpump crapped the bed. when the dealer repalced it(under warranty, sweet), they advised me that my timing belt needs to be changed soon. my car had about 69,000 miles on it at that point. just things to consider.

Straz85 · #3 (**permalink**) 01-01-2008, 11:34 AM

First make sure your temp sensor is a green top, if not change that. If that doesn't fix it, I'd bet water pump. Was the timing belt done yet? If not, do it sooner rather than later, and do the water pump at the same time.