Ask me anything about Audis!
04-03-2014, 12:24 PM
#101
Audi Forum - Posts like an A4
Thread Starter
Join Date: Oct 2013
Location: Toronto
Posts: 185
Re: Ask me anything about Audis!
MotorFabrik,
2003 A4 1.8T Quattro Sedan, 5-Spd manual, 198,000Km
I have an annoying coolant smell and low heat. Initially low heat so I flushed heater core (both sides), changed thermostat, J-Plug and reservoir cap with OEM parts. Also refilled with OEM G12 and distilled water. Timing belt, water pump and coolant flange at the rear of the head was changed before I bought the car a couple of years ago.
Bled the system over and over again using the upper heater core hose (highest point of the system) with the little hole in the hose. This should be the proper way to bleed it. Heat is a little better but still not hot. Noticed center vents cooler than side vents. Also in the summer with AC, the center vents are warmer than the outer vents. Could this be the temp mix flaps?
After all of that, I'm noticing a coolant smell from under the hood. Pressure tested it but can't find any leaks and can't pinpoint the location of the smell. Also coolant level remains constant. Just last week, engine light came on and VAG says DTC 16502-Coolant Temp Sensor 1, Cct High, Lower limit not reached. Also noticed that the rads fans run on high as soon as start the car from cold but goes operates normally once up to operating temps. Possible G62 CTS in the back of the head? Car not overheating and temp guage is in the middle (90), where it should be.
BTW, do you have an alignment machine?
2003 A4 1.8T Quattro Sedan, 5-Spd manual, 198,000Km
I have an annoying coolant smell and low heat. Initially low heat so I flushed heater core (both sides), changed thermostat, J-Plug and reservoir cap with OEM parts. Also refilled with OEM G12 and distilled water. Timing belt, water pump and coolant flange at the rear of the head was changed before I bought the car a couple of years ago.
Bled the system over and over again using the upper heater core hose (highest point of the system) with the little hole in the hose. This should be the proper way to bleed it. Heat is a little better but still not hot. Noticed center vents cooler than side vents. Also in the summer with AC, the center vents are warmer than the outer vents. Could this be the temp mix flaps?
After all of that, I'm noticing a coolant smell from under the hood. Pressure tested it but can't find any leaks and can't pinpoint the location of the smell. Also coolant level remains constant. Just last week, engine light came on and VAG says DTC 16502-Coolant Temp Sensor 1, Cct High, Lower limit not reached. Also noticed that the rads fans run on high as soon as start the car from cold but goes operates normally once up to operating temps. Possible G62 CTS in the back of the head? Car not overheating and temp guage is in the middle (90), where it should be.
BTW, do you have an alignment machine?
If you have access to VAGCOM, is it possible to do a fan speed output test for the high/low? I ask because the fans spin as soon as you turn on the car. It could be an indication of a faulty thermo switch on the rad (which controls the fan)...in addition to a faulty CTS as the CEL indicates.
You're correct with respect to the bleeding procedure. To rule out the flaps, there is an actuator test that you can conduct through VAGCOM to see if they are operating within spec. However, I have a feeling it is the core itself...sulfur/calcium can build up to a point where even repeated flushes (including with CLR) doesn't help and the cause of the restriction. Do you smell coolant in the cabin with the heat turned on? Or is just in/around the engine bay?
We do not currently have an alignment machine
...but we are looking at opening another location with the space for doing alignment and corner weights.
04-03-2014, 01:31 PM
#102
Audi Forum - Posts like an A3
Join Date: Jul 2012
Location: Toronto
Posts: 58
Re: Ask me anything about Audis!
I do have access to VAGCOM but not too familiar with it's capabilities yet but I have used that actuator procedure on my flaps but produced the same results and no errors. The reason I'm thinking it's the flaps is because of the temp difference with the AC as well as the heat between the outer and center vents. You could be correct, but without digging further into it by removing the motor control from the mix flap and physically moving the flap from one extreme to the other and comparing the movement with the motor attached, there's no way to prove it.
As far as the heater core is concerned, I may have to agree with you although the water flow through it when I was flushing it from both ends didn't indicate any restrictions within the core itself. This is why I don't suspect the core and looking at the checking the flaps once it gets warmer outside and I can take my time with it in the driveway.
The smell is definitely coming from under the hood. I don't notice or even forget at times that I have the smell until I step out of the car. Only then I get a whiff of the sweet smell.
Regarding the alignment, are you familiar with the B5/B6 chassis' special procedure and using the VAG1925 jig for toe curve adjustments? No one (including the dealerships) has this jig and adapters which is why I bought one from Germany. But some alignment shops that I went to don't understand it and vehemently insists that it's utter nonsense or unecessary.
Thanks for the input MF. You're doing everyone a great service.
As far as the heater core is concerned, I may have to agree with you although the water flow through it when I was flushing it from both ends didn't indicate any restrictions within the core itself. This is why I don't suspect the core and looking at the checking the flaps once it gets warmer outside and I can take my time with it in the driveway.
The smell is definitely coming from under the hood. I don't notice or even forget at times that I have the smell until I step out of the car. Only then I get a whiff of the sweet smell.
Regarding the alignment, are you familiar with the B5/B6 chassis' special procedure and using the VAG1925 jig for toe curve adjustments? No one (including the dealerships) has this jig and adapters which is why I bought one from Germany. But some alignment shops that I went to don't understand it and vehemently insists that it's utter nonsense or unecessary.
Thanks for the input MF. You're doing everyone a great service.
Last edited by veedubb; 04-03-2014 at 01:52 PM.
04-03-2014, 04:46 PM
#103
Audi Forum - Posts like an A4
Thread Starter
Join Date: Oct 2013
Location: Toronto
Posts: 185
Re: Ask me anything about Audis!
I do have access to VAGCOM but not too familiar with it's capabilities yet but I have used that actuator procedure on my flaps but produced the same results and no errors. The reason I'm thinking it's the flaps is because of the temp difference with the AC as well as the heat between the outer and center vents. You could be correct, but without digging further into it by removing the motor control from the mix flap and physically moving the flap from one extreme to the other and comparing the movement with the motor attached, there's no way to prove it.
As far as the heater core is concerned, I may have to agree with you although the water flow through it when I was flushing it from both ends didn't indicate any restrictions within the core itself. This is why I don't suspect the core and looking at the checking the flaps once it gets warmer outside and I can take my time with it in the driveway.
The smell is definitely coming from under the hood. I don't notice or even forget at times that I have the smell until I step out of the car. Only then I get a whiff of the sweet smell.
Regarding the alignment, are you familiar with the B5/B6 chassis' special procedure and using the VAG1925 jig for toe curve adjustments? No one (including the dealerships) has this jig and adapters which is why I bought one from Germany. But some alignment shops that I went to don't understand it and vehemently insists that it's utter nonsense or unecessary.
Thanks for the input MF. You're doing everyone a great service.
As far as the heater core is concerned, I may have to agree with you although the water flow through it when I was flushing it from both ends didn't indicate any restrictions within the core itself. This is why I don't suspect the core and looking at the checking the flaps once it gets warmer outside and I can take my time with it in the driveway.
The smell is definitely coming from under the hood. I don't notice or even forget at times that I have the smell until I step out of the car. Only then I get a whiff of the sweet smell.
Regarding the alignment, are you familiar with the B5/B6 chassis' special procedure and using the VAG1925 jig for toe curve adjustments? No one (including the dealerships) has this jig and adapters which is why I bought one from Germany. But some alignment shops that I went to don't understand it and vehemently insists that it's utter nonsense or unecessary.
Thanks for the input MF. You're doing everyone a great service.
If it was hot on say the centre and nothing on the outer (or vice versa, nothing on the centre and hot on the outer)...I would say it could be flap related. In addition, your VAGCOM output test showed the flaps to be working. If I read your first post correctly...you have heat but its low and somewhat of a temperature difference between the vents but not a total absence of heat from one set of vents?
You don't hear a ticking or clicking noise from the blower motor do you?
Although water is flowing, that doesn't necessarily mean its totally non-restricted. When you flushed it did a lot of gunk come out by any chance?
Regarding the smell, its possible that the coolant flange is leaking/sweating again and the residual is burning, creating the slight smell. If you want, let us know and we can lift it to inspect...no obligation.
Our head tech has used that special jig and you're right, its not a very common tool...especially in North America. The procedure itself is not difficult. Its definitely not utter nonsense but a good shop can bring the alignment to within spec without necessarily using the jig/adapters.
04-04-2014, 10:08 AM
#104
Audi Forum - Posts like an A3
Join Date: Jul 2012
Location: Toronto
Posts: 58
Re: Ask me anything about Audis!
Hi MF, you are correct that there's not a total absence of heat in the center vents, just temp difference. At times there is flap motor whirl and ticking back and forth but it seems like the computer is trying to re-align the flaps, but there are no blower motor noises which is a good thing
When I flushed the HC, there were no indication of gunk or other nasty stuff coming out, except that the coolant was more brown in colour.
I kinda suspect that it may be that flange but it's very hard to see anything around that area. I do want to pay you guys a visit in the near future so that is in the plans.
I know that most shops can get the regular toe adjustment right but only under the assumtion that it was knocked out of alignment or a change in a suspension component or two. I have changed the out the leaky rack as well as replaced all the front control arms and outer tie rods with the 10 pc. Meyle HD kit. I have also swapped my 1BA springs to 1BE and new Bilstein shocks. Essentially the whole front end is new. The regular toe adjustment may be correct but the toe curve adjustment has never been set and is just arbitrary at this point. I find that since I did all that work on the front end, the car doesn't behave as neutral as it did before the work. It used to make me smile every time I drive it. It used to track nice on the highway, return to center nicely and doesn't follow ruts in the road, etc. Now, it tracks like it's possessed, doesn't center that well and I'm getting bump steer from the front end. This is very frustrating after spending all this $$$. This after 3 different 3D laser alignments at two reputable shops. Don't get me wrong, it's very tight, very toss-able and there's no suspension noises but the feeling is gone and I'm at a loss.
Thanks.
When I flushed the HC, there were no indication of gunk or other nasty stuff coming out, except that the coolant was more brown in colour.
I kinda suspect that it may be that flange but it's very hard to see anything around that area. I do want to pay you guys a visit in the near future so that is in the plans.
I know that most shops can get the regular toe adjustment right but only under the assumtion that it was knocked out of alignment or a change in a suspension component or two. I have changed the out the leaky rack as well as replaced all the front control arms and outer tie rods with the 10 pc. Meyle HD kit. I have also swapped my 1BA springs to 1BE and new Bilstein shocks. Essentially the whole front end is new. The regular toe adjustment may be correct but the toe curve adjustment has never been set and is just arbitrary at this point. I find that since I did all that work on the front end, the car doesn't behave as neutral as it did before the work. It used to make me smile every time I drive it. It used to track nice on the highway, return to center nicely and doesn't follow ruts in the road, etc. Now, it tracks like it's possessed, doesn't center that well and I'm getting bump steer from the front end. This is very frustrating after spending all this $$$. This after 3 different 3D laser alignments at two reputable shops. Don't get me wrong, it's very tight, very toss-able and there's no suspension noises but the feeling is gone and I'm at a loss.
Thanks.
Last edited by veedubb; 04-04-2014 at 10:26 AM.
04-04-2014, 10:24 PM
#105
Audi Forum - Posts like an S6
Join Date: Apr 2008
Location: Oakville
Posts: 1,155
No problem!
By any chance, did they have their windshield replaced? If so, were the rain senors included on the replacement? Also, check for any obstruction over the senors..dirt/grime etc.
If you would like, come by and we can VAGCOM the sensors and see if they are operating within spec...no charge/obligation!
We are located at 750 Oakdale Road, Unit 22, 400/Finch. Website is motorfabrik.ca
By the way, have you had any battery/alternator issues with the RS4?
By any chance, did they have their windshield replaced? If so, were the rain senors included on the replacement? Also, check for any obstruction over the senors..dirt/grime etc.
If you would like, come by and we can VAGCOM the sensors and see if they are operating within spec...no charge/obligation!
We are located at 750 Oakdale Road, Unit 22, 400/Finch. Website is motorfabrik.ca
By the way, have you had any battery/alternator issues with the RS4?
As for the rs4, no issues. Had a knock sensor go bad and a leaky matter cylinder (both replaced under warranty) and that's it in 5 years.
04-06-2014, 09:06 PM
#106
Audi Forum - Posts like an A3
Join Date: Apr 2011
Location: Ottawa
Posts: 79
Re: Ask me anything about Audis!
04-06-2014, 09:19 PM
#107
Audi Forum - Posts like an A1
Join Date: Apr 2014
Location: Ottawa Ont.
Posts: 1
Re: Ask me anything about Audis!
i have a 2002 A4 quattro 1.8 turbo
what would be a good brand name that makes a K04 turbo and also i was thinking of a baileys or forge BOV. and what are major signs of turbo failure.. i was looking at the turbo when doing timing belt and their is very minimal play on the intake side of the turbo but 1 mm is like one mile in i turbo i understand...And minimal oil in the inter-cooler system but when accelerating the boost fluctuates... so is it possible my turbine in the turbo is hitting the sidewall causing it to stop/slow down and have to re-boost. and if so im guessing i need a new turbo or rebuild existing turbo. sorry this is so long i have so many questions...lol
Thanks Brandon
what would be a good brand name that makes a K04 turbo and also i was thinking of a baileys or forge BOV. and what are major signs of turbo failure.. i was looking at the turbo when doing timing belt and their is very minimal play on the intake side of the turbo but 1 mm is like one mile in i turbo i understand...And minimal oil in the inter-cooler system but when accelerating the boost fluctuates... so is it possible my turbine in the turbo is hitting the sidewall causing it to stop/slow down and have to re-boost. and if so im guessing i need a new turbo or rebuild existing turbo. sorry this is so long i have so many questions...lol
Thanks Brandon
Last edited by Brandon A4-b6; 04-06-2014 at 09:24 PM.
04-07-2014, 02:59 PM
#108
Audi Forum - Posts like an A1
Join Date: Apr 2014
Location: PEI
Posts: 1
Re: Ask me anything about Audis!
Hello,
I have a 2000 A4 1.8T FWD (I wish it was Quattro) and I need the starter replaced. I was just wondering if you knew what the brand (and part # if possible) is that makes the original part (OEM I think it is)? I have looked everywhere online and have not found an answer, so I am here. If you could get back that would be awesome!
Thanks,
Dev
P.S. What you are doing here is just great
I have a 2000 A4 1.8T FWD (I wish it was Quattro) and I need the starter replaced. I was just wondering if you knew what the brand (and part # if possible) is that makes the original part (OEM I think it is)? I have looked everywhere online and have not found an answer, so I am here. If you could get back that would be awesome!
Thanks,
Dev
P.S. What you are doing here is just great
04-07-2014, 09:38 PM
#110
Audi Forum - Posts like an A4
Thread Starter
Join Date: Oct 2013
Location: Toronto
Posts: 185
Re: Ask me anything about Audis!
Hi MF, you are correct that there's not a total absence of heat in the center vents, just temp difference. At times there is flap motor whirl and ticking back and forth but it seems like the computer is trying to re-align the flaps, but there are no blower motor noises which is a good thing
When I flushed the HC, there were no indication of gunk or other nasty stuff coming out, except that the coolant was more brown in colour.
I kinda suspect that it may be that flange but it's very hard to see anything around that area. I do want to pay you guys a visit in the near future so that is in the plans.
I know that most shops can get the regular toe adjustment right but only under the assumtion that it was knocked out of alignment or a change in a suspension component or two. I have changed the out the leaky rack as well as replaced all the front control arms and outer tie rods with the 10 pc. Meyle HD kit. I have also swapped my 1BA springs to 1BE and new Bilstein shocks. Essentially the whole front end is new. The regular toe adjustment may be correct but the toe curve adjustment has never been set and is just arbitrary at this point. I find that since I did all that work on the front end, the car doesn't behave as neutral as it did before the work. It used to make me smile every time I drive it. It used to track nice on the highway, return to center nicely and doesn't follow ruts in the road, etc. Now, it tracks like it's possessed, doesn't center that well and I'm getting bump steer from the front end. This is very frustrating after spending all this $$$. This after 3 different 3D laser alignments at two reputable shops. Don't get me wrong, it's very tight, very toss-able and there's no suspension noises but the feeling is gone and I'm at a loss.
Thanks.
When I flushed the HC, there were no indication of gunk or other nasty stuff coming out, except that the coolant was more brown in colour.
I kinda suspect that it may be that flange but it's very hard to see anything around that area. I do want to pay you guys a visit in the near future so that is in the plans.
I know that most shops can get the regular toe adjustment right but only under the assumtion that it was knocked out of alignment or a change in a suspension component or two. I have changed the out the leaky rack as well as replaced all the front control arms and outer tie rods with the 10 pc. Meyle HD kit. I have also swapped my 1BA springs to 1BE and new Bilstein shocks. Essentially the whole front end is new. The regular toe adjustment may be correct but the toe curve adjustment has never been set and is just arbitrary at this point. I find that since I did all that work on the front end, the car doesn't behave as neutral as it did before the work. It used to make me smile every time I drive it. It used to track nice on the highway, return to center nicely and doesn't follow ruts in the road, etc. Now, it tracks like it's possessed, doesn't center that well and I'm getting bump steer from the front end. This is very frustrating after spending all this $$$. This after 3 different 3D laser alignments at two reputable shops. Don't get me wrong, it's very tight, very toss-able and there's no suspension noises but the feeling is gone and I'm at a loss.
Thanks.
.I wasn't aware the extent of work you had done to the front end...its essentially entirely new. I understand what you mean by the 'feeling' is gone...its that very specific Audi feeling and won't be replicated unless its back to factory settings using that jig. If we had an alignment rack, we'd try and get it back even if it took the whole day. Check your PM
