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otto_feuer65

RS7 Cooling System Failure, Radiator Blockage Alert

Got some worrying symptoms with my 2016 RS7 (21500km, gas engine) that might point to radiator blockage issues. Engine is slow to warm up to operating temp, dash shows weird temperature readings, and check engine light is on. Pretty sure its related to restricted airflow at the cooling grille. Has anyone experienced similar problems with engine cooling? Not too excited about going back to the shop after my last experience, so would appreciate hearing about your repair experiences and trusted mechanics who actually know what they are doing with these issues.

4 comment(s)

sarahwolf18

Had similar symptoms on my 2019 RS5 last winter. The engine overheating warning appeared intermittently, and temperature readings were inconsistent. After inspection, the cooling system showed multiple issues requiring attention. The main problem was debris accumulation in the cooling grille, restricting proper airflow to the radiator. The automotive cooling components were functioning, but the thermal management system was compromised due to this blockage. The secondary issue was a faulty temperature sensor, which caused incorrect readings on the dashboard. This turned into a serious repair as the restricted airflow had caused strain on other cooling system components. The repair involved: Complete cleaning of the cooling grille assembly, Replacement of temperature sensor, Inspection and flush of the entire cooling system, ECU diagnostic reset Proper maintenance of the cooling grille and regular inspection of the thermal management system could have prevented this issue. The check engine light in your case suggests the car's computer has detected irregularities in the cooling system performance, which requires immediate attention to prevent potential engine damage.

otto_feuer65 (Author)

Thanks for sharing your experience. You described exactly what happened to my Audi RS7, the temperature gauge showing inconsistent readings and engine cooling problems due to restricted airflow. Got it fixed at a shop last month but wondering if the 850 Euro repair bill was reasonable. Have you had any recurring issues with the thermal management system since the repair? My cooling grille seems to be collecting debris again and want to know if I should be concerned about another blockage developing.

sarahwolf18

The repair cost I faced was significantly lower than yours at 52 Euro for the faulty fuse that was affecting the cooling system controls. The main cooling grille restriction was resolved through a thorough cleaning service, which was included in my regular maintenance package. Since getting the thermal management system sorted, my RS5 has been running perfectly with no temperature fluctuations or engine cooling concerns. However, regular maintenance is crucial. The cooling grille does naturally collect debris, but this can be managed with routine cleaning every few months. A simple inspection and cleaning of the grille area helps prevent radiator blockage from developing again. The car overheating issues completely stopped after the repair. For preventive maintenance, I now make it a habit to visually check the cooling grille when washing the car and remove any visible debris. This simple step has kept the engine cooling system working efficiently without any need for additional repairs. The temperature readings have remained stable, and the car maintains proper operating temperature consistently. If youre noticing debris buildup again, a quick cleaning should prevent any serious issues from developing.

otto_feuer65 (Author)

Thanks for the feedback. Finally took my RS7 to a specialist shop after reading the responses here. Turned out the thermal management system needed more work than just cleaning. The mechanic found a cracked hose connection that was causing coolant loss, explaining the weird temperature readings. Also cleared out significant debris from the cooling grille. Total repair came to 850 Euro, including: New coolant hose and clamps, Complete system flush, Cooling grille cleaning, Temperature sensor replacement, Labor costs Car runs perfectly now, no more inconsistent temperature readings or engine overheating warnings. The shop showed me how to check and clean the cooling grille myself, which I now do monthly. Lesson learned about regular maintenance preventing bigger problems. Appreciate all the advice that helped me understand the issue before heading to the shop. Made me more confident discussing the problems with the mechanic and understanding the repair work needed.

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