Coolant leak on 1.9tdi

**greenkeeper** · 29-01-2013,04:35 PM

Have a 99 1.9tdi with a water leak at the rear of the engine near the starter motor. Cant really see in there. What may it be and what do I need to take off to get in there. Should add water runs out of it when I take the cap off the coolant tank.
Thanks for taking the time to look at my post.
Great forum guys keep up the good work.

**Peter D** · 29-01-2013,05:33 PM

I assume this engine code is AFN, please comfirm. It is on the ID label in the spare wheel bay. The engine cover needs to come off and there is a water oulet pipe at the rear on the engine with an O ring in it. Either that is leaking or the pipe that leaves the port. You may be able to see the leak but will have to remove the ait duct piping to access it. Regards Peter

**greenkeeper** · 29-01-2013,05:47 PM

Originally Posted by Peter D

I assume this engine code is AFN, please comfirm. It is on the ID label in the spare wheel bay. The engine cover needs to come off and there is a water oulet pipe at the rear on the engine with an O ring in it. Either that is leaking or the pipe that leaves the port. You may be able to see the leak but will have to remove the ait duct piping to access it. Regards Peter

Yes it is afn engine code. Can just see water near the starter motor. Does ait mean air intake pipe.
Thanks for your reply

**Peter D** · 29-01-2013,05:58 PM

Yes. You may be able to see the leak with a small mirror and good torch. Regards Peter

**greenkeeper** · 29-01-2013,06:07 PM

Thanks peter will have a further look tomorrow and post results

**mrnice** · 29-01-2013,06:35 PM

I have exactly the same, though it just drips whether exp cap is on or not. My engine is awx though.
Water drips onto starter on way to the ground, will get around to looking at it sometime soon, my best
bet is its coming from a hose that runs round rear of engine too, but very hard to see with inlet pipe in the way..

**greenkeeper** · 29-01-2013,06:58 PM

Had a good look earlier over a pit. May take an olympic gymnast to find the leak in there. Mine is exactly the same. Going to tackle it tomorrow and will report back.

**mrnice** · 29-01-2013,07:32 PM

Best of luck!, I'm sure I've read of people replacing the hose that runs round the back of the block (if it indeed turns out to be the culprit).
I even found swapping the coolant temp sensor which is in the same vicinity difficult- required some serious wrist-yoga action..

**greenkeeper** · 30-01-2013,08:04 PM

Well folks following inspection today its an coor plug leaking. Stuck up behind the starter motor has anyone replaced this without removing the engine. Couldnt even get the starter motor out. Whoever designed this has never had to work on his car in his life. Might be able to replace the plug if I get starter out of the road. Yes I here antifreeze. Not my fault garge never put any in but deny it. Never put the back on my new headlights either. Wont be back there. Time to dust my spanners done and get it done myself and properly. Help please

**Peter D** · 30-01-2013,08:14 PM

I was afraid of that after the recent very cold conditions in some areas. To remove the starter the air con compressor has to be removed. I assume you are referring to the plug on the side of the block but sheilded by the starter. Regards Peter