Help! Problems with 2001 Audi A3 1.8T maintaining engine temp

[Leicesterkev]

Hi All,

I've just got my hands on a slightly older audi a3 1.8T and have to say I love it! It's having a few teething problems though that I'm trying to sort out but would welcome advice on an engine temp problem.

The engine seems to be quite slow getting to 90 degrees but does get there and does seem to remain there unless I put on the heater. After a minute or so of the heater being on, the engine temp reading drops towards 60 and only warms up again once the heater is switched off again.

Is this likely to be a thermostat problem or temp sensor? Or am I barking up completely the wrong tree...

Thanks in advance for your help!

Cheers

Kevin

[micheal balbrig]

It is probably best to fit a new genuine thermostat as first step in fault finding.
This would establish if one already exists,and also if it improves or aggravates problem.
A diesel A3 can take up to 9 miles to reach 90 degrees,not sure about petrol model.