Audi A1 Overheating: Fan Failure Warning Signs

Having dealt with a similar engine cooling issue on my 2014 Audi A3 gasoline, I can share my experience. The symptoms you describe match what I encountered, temperature climbing and radiator fan not engaging properly. In my case, the speed sensor controlling the fan was defective. The repair cost was 250 Euro including parts and labor. The workshop diagnosed it within an hour using diagnostic equipment. Key points from my experience: The radiator fan failing to activate can quickly lead to overheating, A faulty speed sensor prevents proper fan blade operation, Driving with an overheating engine risks serious damage Before suggesting specific solutions, it would help to know: Does the fan work at all, or is it completely non-functional? Are you noticing any coolant leaks? Does the temperature drop when driving at higher speeds? Have you checked the coolant level? Regarding driving to the workshop, I would not risk it. When the cooling system is compromised, even a short drive can cause expensive engine damage. Having it towed is the safer option. Would be happy to provide more specific guidance once you share those details about your situation.

Thanks for the reply and questions. My last service was 2 months ago at 37323 KM. The fan noise is completely absent, even when the car is hot. I have checked and the coolant level is fine with no visible leaks. The temperature does seem to improve at highway speeds, but quickly rises again in city traffic. The thermal switch test you mentioned could be useful. At this point, I am leaning towards having it towed to avoid any potential engine damage, especially since the fan motor appears completely non-functional. The temperature control issues seem quite serious. Would you know if the speed sensor replacement requires any special programming, or is it a straightforward parts swap?

Based on those symptoms, especially the complete lack of fan operation and temperature behavior, it sounds nearly identical to what I experienced with my A3. The car radiator fan being totally silent even at high temperatures is a clear red flag. Since your coolant level is good and the temperature improves at speed (when theres natural airflow), this strongly suggests the fan system rather than a larger cooling issue. In my repair, the speed sensor replacement was relatively straightforward, no special programming was needed. The thermal switch connects directly to the fan blade assembly. However, its worth noting that in some cases what appears to be a speed sensor issue can also be: A blown fuse (check the radiator fan fuse first), The fan motor itself failing, A faulty control module My repair costs broke down as: Speed sensor: 90 Euro, Labor: 160 Euro, Diagnostic fee was included Given your car overheating symptoms match mine exactly, I would definitely stick with your decision to have it towed. The workshop should be able to confirm whether its the same speed sensor issue I had or potentially the fan motor itself. Once fixed, I recommend monitoring the temperature gauge closely for the first few drives to ensure the fan kicks in properly during idle.

The symptoms you describe with my A1 cooling system definitely match your A3 experience. The complete absence of fan noise and temperature pattern (improving at speed but rising in traffic) does point to a fan system problem rather than something more complex. I have called for a tow truck to bring it to the workshop tomorrow morning. The cost estimate you provided helps set my expectations, around 250 Euro sounds reasonable for the repair, whether it ends up being the speed sensor or fan motor itself. I will definitely check the radiator fan fuse before the tow arrives, just in case its something that simple. Though given the temperature control issues and complete lack of fan operation, I suspect its more likely the speed sensor or fan motor as you suggested. I appreciate the detailed breakdown of your repair experience. I will update once I get the diagnosis and repair completed. Hopefully its a straightforward fix like in your case and not a more complex cooling system problem.