VW Crafter Temperature Issues Point to Cooling Problem

Similar cooling system issues occurred on my 2011 VW Transporter TDI. As someone with basic automotive repair experience, I initially thought it was a major engine cooling problem, but it turned out to be much simpler. The temperature gauge was showing erratic readings because of a blown fuse that controlled the engine management sensors. The automotive cooling system itself was perfectly fine, and the radiator grille was clean. After replacing the 15A fuse in the engine compartment fuse box, all temperature readings returned to normal and the check engine light turned off. Total repair cost was 52€ at my regular workshop, including diagnostic time. They checked the entire cooling system to be thorough, but the fuse was the only actual issue. To better assist with your situation, could you share: Have you checked the fuse box? Are there any engine fault codes stored? Does the radiator fan activate normally? What temperature readings are you seeing exactly? Your symptoms sound very similar, but knowing these details would help determine if you are facing the same electrical issue or an actual cooling system problem.

Last service was done at 87000KM and included coolant flush and thermostat replacement. Checked the fuse box based on your suggestion, all fuses related to engine management are intact. Getting error code P0128 from my OBD reader. The radiator fan seems to run constantly now, even when the engine is cold. Temperature readings jump between 50C and 90C within minutes. Had a look at the front end and noticed quite a bit of debris blocking the radiator grille, which might explain the poor thermal management. Thinking of clearing the radiator and checking coolant level before investigating further. Would that make sense as a first troubleshooting step for these engine cooling symptoms?

Thanks for those additional details, interesting that you are getting P0128, which typically indicates the engine is not reaching proper operating temperature. This matches perfectly with the erratic temperature readings you described. The constantly running fan and restricted airflow through the blocked radiator grille create a problematic cycle for the thermal management system. The debris is likely forcing the fan to compensate for reduced cooling efficiency. On my Transporter, I have learned that keeping the radiator grille clean is crucial for proper engine cooling. When I had similar symptoms last summer, thoroughly cleaning the radiator and grille area resolved the fan behavior and temperature fluctuations. Your troubleshooting approach makes sense: 1. Clear all debris from the radiator grille to restore proper airflow 2. Verify coolant levels are correct 3. Clear the error code and monitor if it returns 4. Check if the fan operation returns to normal If the symptoms persist after addressing the restricted airflow, the thermostat might need rechecking despite being recently replaced. Sometimes new parts can be faulty. But start with the simple fixes first, proper airflow through a clean radiator grille is essential for consistent engine cooling.

I really appreciate the detailed response and troubleshooting suggestions. Did a thorough cleaning of the radiator grille yesterday and checked the coolant, it was actually slightly below minimum. After topping up the coolant and removing all the debris blocking the cooling system, the thermal management has improved significantly. The fan is now cycling normally instead of running constantly, and temperature readings have stabilized around 85C during normal driving. Cleared the P0128 code and it hasnt come back after 50km of driving. Engine warm-up time is much more reasonable now too. Looks like the combination of low coolant and restricted airflow through the blocked radiator grille was causing the engine cooling issues. Going to make checking the grille for debris part of my regular maintenance routine to prevent future overheating problems. Thanks for helping me avoid an unnecessary workshop visit!