How to diagnose Beetle overheating

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How to diagnose Beetle overheating

[@billhickox]

There are times when the "swear, cuss and shout index" is too high for lack of tools and at my age and disability too much for my physical condition. That's when The paid mechanic is a God send.

[@sexysetter]

Thanks for your help mate, I’m an old school mechanic and need blokes like you to fine tune my knowledge to bring me up to speed with modern engines. I can now investigate my wifes overheating beetle. It would help if it had a temperature gauge. Cheers.

[@451oneandonly]

I couldnt agree with you more about empowering people to know more about their vehicles...here i sit waiting for my VW I just bought today cool down after overheating...learning from your video..thank you...

[@fitnessfab]

Thanks Brian .. just did the pump today with a cast one ... when removing ... the plastic impeller detached and stuck inside the block ... have to change the coolant flange (again) .. and not quite sure of the fans ... what a terrible cascade of events ... head gasket might need replacing as well ... thanks for the videos ... they have been quite helpful ..

[@briansmobile1]

I've since purchased a legitmate camera that does well in low light. Thanks for the feedback!

[@SybbieCreations]

Thank you, for sharing - knowledge is good. It's helping me to do better. I am no longer wasting thousands of dollars on minor repairs for my vehicle.

[@feedinc2735]

Empowering people with information... That's a noble thing these days. Keep up the great work!

[@borisborroto6850]

I AM A MECHANIC TOO AND i REALLY APRECIATE YOUR HELP, KEEP UPLOADING VIDEOS LIKE THIS ONE ...MANY PEOPLE WILL SAY THANK YOU..ME INCLUDED..

[@euonymus1980]

Your not ruining the industry.......thankful for your repair videos!!

[@5tu4rtyb0y77]

100% correct about the water pump.The one in my 2004 beetle with 64000 miles on the clock shattered into pieces then the engine overheated and warped the cylinder head .I recommend fitting a good quality steel propeller or similar when changing the timing belt or sooner if you can.

[@migueldejesusolivares5607]

Your videos are awesome! I had really bad experience with mechanic working on my cars and trucks. So I stared to work on then. My self. And when I'm lazy I just pay someone to do it.

[@blackwell1384]

I agree with your take on empowerment, also, a lot of people believe that working on your own car is no longer reasonable or possible, I think you help people to see that it is possible. cheers.

[@gregorylee9763]

Yo Brian! Thank you for your very helpful youtube fix it yourself videos! You helped me fix my overheating 2002 beetle problem...keep up your awesome efforts... Thanks, again...

[@CaliforniaSteph]

Had GTI that cut out when you turned right. Turns out it was a broken hose within the gas tank. Ended up replacing tank and all was well again. Cheers!

[@thaneonyou]

thanks for all the info, the duralast pump for that car is made out of fiberglass and a resin (wont brake down below 400 deg f) i don't know if they do it on all the pumps but they do with that one.

[@dandlion11]

I think your doing a father or 4 a favor and your information is appreciated. Good for the guys making 120 an hour, but most of us cant afford those wages. Keep the videos coming. Fellow VW enthusiast, yet early models, so i was looking for some guidance on our 06 beetle, Thanks and keep the slogan!

[@dcloes]

Brian, just wanted to say thanks for your videos. You've helped me put money into tools instead of paying a mechanic to do these simple repairs. I'm a bit curious why you would choose to replace one fan for $300 from the dealer when you can by a whole new fan assembly with lifetime warranty for $120? Especially when the OEM VW fans are a high failure item due to an apparent flawed design? Thanks again.

[@rogerthurlow8043]

THANKS FOR SHARING THIS, I HAVE A OVERHEATING FAULT AND WOULD HAVE SPENT A GOOD FEW HOURS LOOKING FOR FIX.

[@rraymond2007]

Brian, you commented that people have complained that you are destroying the industry. I strongly object to that view. Many of us are driving 10+ year old vehicles because we don't have the money to buy new. If we can't afford new, chances are we can't afford the cost of a mechanic either. At least, if I can do the majority of the repairs myself, I can save enough to have a pro do what I know I can't do. So thank you...

[@briansmobile1]

@fargobrad If it's crudded up enough to need to be flushed the corrosion likely was there before the tap water got to it. I typically don't drain the block by pulling the plug, but rather force air through it to clear what I can. I use concentrate coolant and account what little is left as water added. As badly neglected as most V-dubs are that I see I don't go all ph scale on them. They just aren't built to last. Modern all makes and models coolant is great for inhibiting corrosion.

[@TheNeal666]

Run with the new slogan. You are providing a real service to the community. Thank you.

[@joevegas3907]

One more subscribed. I purchaes my 16 yr old Daughter a 2004 VW Beetle with 103k miles, Ill be wrenching on this Bug. Thank you brother..

[@michelleasunnydays140]

125 thousand miles on my 2001 VW beetle. the red thermostat light started flashing this week a couple times and turned off again. i parked it and found your videos

[@MonaLisa-ey7jj]

hi I have a 2000 2.0 v w bettle, we changed the water pump and the coolant resavoir, but my beetle still over heats. it smells of hot plastic and the coolant resavoir is always empty. this is after it has reached the engine temp. i think it could be some of the hoses or maybe the flange, need help please.

[@1elAguila]

you are so right brian, and like they said knowledges is power and i don't think is about destroying the industry is like you said teaching and empowering keep up the good work amigo

[@briansmobile1]

You're welcome Mary! Best of luck to you. If you get stuck or have a question feel free to ask.

[@briansmobile1]

The guy is a rock. I can really get behind someone like that.

[@briansmobile1]

@feedinc I'm glad some one else thinks so too. That makes me happy.

[@LilHoss]

I've been working on a 1998 New Beetle, replaced water pump and timing belt, and then had to replace valves. I replaced the gaskets and all too. The car starts, but seems like it is not holding furl pressure between starts..But my main question is, when I re assembled the car, I had 6 13mm 1 inch bolts left over . I can't seem to find where they are supposed to go. I started this 2 years ago, let it sit, do I don't remember these bolts. The car rattles a little when it is at idle, but smooth when I rev it up. Thought you might know off hand where these bolts might go. Thanks, loved the video!!

[@11nathanf]

most people in my area are factory works making $20.00 an hour or less the local garages charges start at $120.00 dollars an hour simple math will tell why video like your is a must very cool Rob, Ontario.

[@DillysADV]

I have been turning wrenches professionally and personally for many years.. there comes a time when Time is more valuable than paying someone else do fix/ maintain your car. being educated on this just helps people to know when it is time to get something done, then determining the value of it being done..

[@maryt4523]

Thank you for the easy start.... I was lost at a leak on the right and why the heck my fans aren't working.... I'm sure it wont stop there but I know where to go for guidance!!!!

[@GerryJ08]

Hey Brian, as always you're videos are informative and educational. I like the slogan so run with it and don't fret over those mechanics who would like nothing better than to squeeze us DIYers out of everything. I just changed my CV drive axle (drivers side) on my 2005 Dodge Grand Caravan successfully because I watched your video (and others) many times. I'm good with tools and not afraid of getting my hands dirty if it will save me money. Good on ya mate. From one copper top to another, cheers.

[@jeremiahpatton7671]

Great Video! I am headed to a friends house tonight to look at their 2001 that is overheating. I have worked on many cars but never a VW. You told me where all the important parts are and what fails the most. This is a valuable video, an extra plus for the Ron Paul poster!!! You should post your paypal link to get paid.

[@highergroundscoffeecommuni8096]

This man high as hell lol! Great video though, very comprehensive and helpful.

[@wl9901]

Thank you ,just bought a bug with all the issues in your vid I'm subscribed

[@jimhofoss9982]

just got a 2001 bug, good to know what to be looking out for!

[@Carolinasoldier4831]

Hey I have a 02 VW beetle GLS 2.0 I've replaced the water pump, thermostate, the flange, ECT, timing belt, and even had to replace a freeze plug behind the tensioner pulley. When I crank and let it running for 20 or 30 mins at 2k I get no overheating issues. However as soon as I get down the road it the red overheating light beeps then starts flashing no leaks. It also throws the code p0117 ECT low input. Could it be a wiring issue? What do you think? Thanks for the videos and the help

[@hernanpadilla2181]

The laser makes you a pro your voice is ok. Remember we want to learn so don’t be afraid to slow down. We’ll follow you and get the bug fixed

[@nebulasmaximus]

took thermo out and pump looks fine i even cranked the engine a bit while someone looked at it, impeller spins fine no cracks or chips, i put everything back filled with coolant i even bled every hose i could get to, started it and warmed it up the heat comes and goes,but when the light comes on theres no heat at all, im letting it cool as im writing this, im going to try to top it off again, seem like im not getting coolant to the heater core, might take it somewhere to diagnose the problem

[@robinsonsauto]

gotta love the power probe, i get cars like this on occasion lol i had one the other week come in needing an inspection so the first thing i asked, is there any lights on? he replies yes can you take care of that also it over heats when i use the AC and the high beams only work when i hold the switch back. he wanted to wait for it. i had to sit down lol and said you may need a sleeping bag... like always great job, hope it goes well

[@wheelerwheels]

You're not destroying the industry, that's silly. I know that the only way around paying someone to "fix" my car is to learn it myself. In fact, if we do it ourselves we may do a better job because it's our investment in time and energy (and finances for parts/tools), so we know what's at stake. Kudos.

[@briansmobile1]

I have a vid on the sensor on a red turbo jetta on my channel. I think you've got air trapped at the thermostat, or poor opening/flow. AND/OR a bad ect sensor.

[@martinvaldepena48]

kool video I have a 2002 vw jetta it's over heating I check both fans by giving 12volt power to them both fans will not run on low speed but high speed the both run .why is that there not going on at all. Thanks for videos keep up good work.

[@briansmobile1]

When you have a fuse blow you lose power to that circuit. You may have multiple components on one circuit. However you have lights turning on (check brake fluid level) and a gauge acting up. I would think you have some pinched or chafed wires rather than a blown fuse. Good luck!

[@nebulasmaximus]

air seems to be the problem. or a bad/clogged heater core? how do i fill the coolant so i dont leave any air pockets? do i need an airlift tool? the way i filled it was by filling the radiator, then started the car while i poured coolant into the reservoir, i let the air bubble out in between the coolant flange and radiator hose. im going to fill it again. this time i will leave the heat on high as i pour it in. thanks for all your help,

[@markhypes1298]

So if it is leaking just replace it...got it. They are fairly cheap anyway. I am also curious about the power probe you are using. Where did you pick it up?? Would be a very handy tool to have for checking electrical plus the added bonus of being able to apply power for checking fans, lights, etc. I have looked a couple places and of course you get the deer in headlight stare!!

[@santanar79]

hello,i just purchased a 01vw beetle, it over heats any heads up of specialties about this car to change the head gasket?

[@briansmobile1]

It's got air trapped in system or it doesn't have coolant flow. I think it's got a bad head gasket maybe. It could be injecting compression gasses into the coolant jacket.

[@paynee1010]

Hello Brian ill fix with out your vids, I love to learn still at 47 yoa id say screw the haters. thanks YOU FOR ALL YOUR HELPFUL VIDS

[@FAASTFREP]

Brian thank you for your videos! They haved helped me a lot! Gracias Brian! I'll follow your updates! Keep up the good work!

[@jefferylewis7561]

I have a 98 vw beetle that's overheating but the fans only come on with a/c, I've changed the thermostat and thermo switch, fans do work but I'm told it's a fuse and I can't seem to find it. any ideas?

[@sonyabukoski856]

thank you helped a lot on helping me diagnose my heating problem

[@briansmobile1]

Are the hoses the same temperature roughly? Or is one super hot and one supper cold? Also have you changed the ECT sensor if it's over 80K miles? It may not be kicking the fans on- on time or the fans may be bad (sluggish).

[@robindon2007]

Just bought an 06 Beetle. Coolant level light comes on for a few minutes and then goes out. The coolant level looks good. What else could it be? Thanks!

[@briansmobile1]

Good question. I get factory stuff at a huge discount.

[@fher205]

Good information thanks. Have a question, I dont have the red power probe, but in order to test a vent fan, it is possible to put ground from a 12V battery to the brown cable and then connect power to low speed and then high speed from battery's positive? I hope I explain well myself, english is not my 1st languaje. Thanks

[@nstahlable]

"I used to pick beetles oout of the grill of my hummer"thumbs up for jeff dunham reference

[@fargobrad]

I've heard most people run a garden house with tap water to flush out the radiator and block, and have heard tap water will corrode everything. So I'm thinking the block drain would need to be removed to completely drain the block? What is your method for flushing? Thank you

[@nebulasmaximus]

ive done that multiple times still overheats. coolant builds in the reservoir then overflows. is it possible that my brand new water pump is defective? it doesnt seem to be circulating. im going to pull out the thermostat and take a look at the impeller. should coolant come out through the small hose on top of the reservoir. not a drop is coming out of mine. i never thought a 4 cyl vw could kick my ass like this.

[@christopherwinters]

awesome knowledge and positive thinking for those who don't know cars.

[@sunnshine9965]

do you have a video showing how to change the water pump? i have a 99 beetle

[@briansmobile1]

@tnb4mnf I like your optimism right there!

[@rudybahena2925]

Thank you for sharing your videos. I drive a 2003 VW Jetta and I am getting my hands dirty. LoL, thank you....

[@briansmobile1]

@SCRC401 More videos to come- hang in there. ; )

[@lamontnorris3701]

I have a 01 beetle it was running when we replaced the laminator . after that it would start then die so I had a new key made thinking it was the imoblizer but no it still starts and then dies. do you have any suggestions?

[@markhypes1298]

just found these videos. I am no stranger to mechanic work by no means but I have a question as I just bought this identiccal beetle for my daughter. There is antifreeze below the *flange* you had mentioned in this video. Did you make a video to show the removal, repair or replace of this?? Is it an *O* ring that goes bad or does the plastic crack??

[@fadilzubaidi264]

Big like....... No way you can please everyone, keep it up brother, God Bless

[@richhernandez6660]

Hi Brian I have a 2001 beetle and I replaced the thermostat and water pump but im still over heating the fans kick on I checked them by turning on the A/C and they both came on what else can I check or replace it just has a dummy light and not a gauge Thanks Rich From Hooper UT

[@Melher27]

ok, so apparently my radiator fan on the drivers side isnt working. but you said it could also be a fuse?.....i'm wondering if thats the case for me because the light to change my front brakes turns on, when in reality, the brakes are fine. The needle for the gas tells me its full when its not or vice versa. Sometimes the needle just doesnt even mark anything. so im debating now on whether i should buy the radiator fan assembly :/ what do you think?

[@briansmobile1]

Thanks for the input!

[@briansmobile1]

Thanks Rob

[@yolenceusa9520]

Thank you ,do you have a chop?

[@Tedybear315]

We have a 2001 VW Beetle with the AVH 2.0. Thankfully the bulk of the work was done on the timing belt and such. The thermostat was running "cool" with a soft fail. (The spring gets weak and opens to soon) So we replaced it. There's the little back hose that feeds into the expansion tank. People need to know it has to be able to pass coolant--that's one way it purges air out. When we did ours? Major air blockage that prevented the car from having heat. Had to massage the crap out of the radiator hoses until she 'burped' big time. We've got all kinds of heat now! Final comment. These are all aluminum engines and require VW only coolant. G13 is expensive--mix it with a gallon of distilled and you're good to go. But it's the only coolant to use, is the factory. (G13 replaced G12) There are special additives that VW coolant has that the 'Green' stuff doesn't. This is where the guys at the auto parts stores do not get it right. Spend the extra---it will save bills down the road.

[@briansmobile1]

@libertythug People are generally kind and awesome and will help each other out as long as they aren't pumped full of fear from the media or as long as they don't have more power than they're fit for.

[@bombshellkell7255]

how about adding transmission fluid to a 2005 auto beetle?

[@kirstenk2292]

You sound like such a good human! Great video! I just subscribed to you!! If you know better, you can definitely do better!! Knowledge opens all sorts of opportunities and options. Thank you for sharing. I look forward to your video on timing 😍 Thank you! Kirsten

[@briansmobile1]

@robinsonsauto That's awesome! I love your video on synchros- I've shared that one a lot to answer people's questions.

[@TheFassold]

what is the plastic thing on the right side of the dipstick? i have a 1999 beetle and i dont have that thing. i keep seeing it in vw's with this engine. why is mine different and what it is?

[@estlou]

How much does all this work on water pump fan radiator belt etc costs normally?

[@briansmobile1]

Its not how you pour it necesarily- it's a matter of topping it off after a drive cycle where the car warms up- thermostat opens- and fill it after it cools.

[@xsgi02x]

Most likely the coolant needs to be topped off, or you have some air pockets in your cooling system. Regardless, take it back and have them top your coolant off. Make sure they use G12 coolant!!!

[@hm3426]

Worked a 2000 Golf which would overheat. Replace water pump, thermostat and it would overheat still. After father diagnosis, It turned out to be the fan high speed wasn't working. Repaired that and no more overheating. In the event, that all of that is done check radiator for clogs.

[@VenturiLife]

Nice quote, thanks Brian. :)

[@nebulasmaximus]

that must be the problem because ive tried everything i also hear ticking especially at start up or around 2000 rpm. sounds like bad lifters. but it runs well for a while 20-30 minutes after that heat in the car turns cold and reservoir fills then red light comes on. it cant be this hard to put coolant in a bug. must be the head.=( shouldnt there be coolant in my oil if the heads bad? my oil is very clean. how can make sure? compression test?

[@briansmobile1]

Thanks!

[@briansmobile1]

@finno123456 That's awesome. I love the way VW has so many diesel offerings.

[@MrKevg59]

Keep up the good work.. your the man...

[@finno123456]

The water pump went on my dads 1999 vw transporter 2.4 diesel its a common thing that go on the vw thay recommend to change them at a certain milage. It has nothing to do with how old the car or van is. You could be lucky and have the pump working still on the car. Hay i was just looking at the fuse box its the very same one as my dads vw transporter fuse box thay use them special wired fuses.

[@briansmobile1]

@killman1971 Very insightful! I like the FUD acronym.

[@briansmobile1]

De Nada

[@briansmobile1]

The plastic disintegrates in the coolant they use.

[@briansmobile1]

welcome

[@wiilywilly2057]

Okay so I really hope you can help me out. You seem to know your Volkswagen, I have a coolant leak that seems to becoming from back of the motor somewhere near the exhaust manifold. it only starts after the cars been running for a minute. i jacked the car up got underneath and seems to becoming from the top in the back of the motor in the middle, dripping down and hitting oil pan and the cv boot. This is our first vw and i am kinda lost. Have coolant on the top of the tranny as well Pleasehelp

[@82Tyrel]

I have a 2001 jetta 1.8T i have relax the engine fan and my car is still running hot what really could be the problem. when have test the fan it only run on slow speed

[@tamm6728]

Hello, ? , I have a 1999 new beetle Volkswagen, Charged it with air conditioner coolant, It reached the 40/50 pressure, and then it flew to the end of gauge, so i disconnected it and a few minutes later it got a little cooler, let it run .. Now it over heats?? and I used super-tech premium r-134a i didn't notice but it had leak sealant and condition, Could i have clogged it up??

[@briansmobile1]

@GerryJ08 = ) Good on you!

[@briansmobile1]

@beefystik No worries man I gotcha ; )

[@libertythug]

It's good to see that Ron Paul suporters are looking out for others in more than one way

[@BradFresh21]

Quick question. I'm working on a bug and the cooling fan won't turn on. The black plastic housing that all the hoses run to has a small crack. The fan does work. Would the coolant temp sensor cause that issue?

[@floridashottest2538]

Brad Fries you have to reprogram it with a computer. Mine was doing the same thing and problem ia fixed.