Seeking Advice on Overheating Issue and Low Coolant Level in 2010 VW Crafter Diesel Engine

Hey! So funny thing, I've had similar issues with my 2008 Volkswagen Transporter diesel. I'm no mechanic, but I've dealt with my share of car problems, so you could say low to moderate experience, I guess! Turned out the issue was indeed coolant level too low. The engine needed coolant to maintain an optimum temperature. I took it to my local garage, the guys there are super approachable. They topped off my coolant and did a pressure test to make sure there weren't any leaks I was missing. Cost me about 52€, give or take - a pretty fair price to stop overheating. But to be more precise for your case, it'd be really helpful if you could share some more details about your Crafter- any odd noises, leaks, when did you change the coolant last? That kind of stuff. Hope this helps!

Hey there! Thanks for getting back to me! Great point about checking for leaks. I had a full service at 450,000 KM, just 8,157 KM ago and I don't remember my mechanic mentioning any leaks or changing the coolant then. No odd noises that I've noticed too. I guess I've been too focused on the warning light and engine heat! Looks like I'll take your advice and head back to the garage to get it checked and get some coolant in. That's a pretty fair price you mentioned. Thanks for helping me out!

No problem at all! Always happy to help out a fellow VW owner in a bind. Given what you've just mentioned, it does sound like the low coolant level could be your culprit here. Not hearing any odd noises is a good sign that your engine components might still be okay, even with the overheating. And that's a relief! Although it's pretty surprising that your mechanic didn't do a coolant change during your full service at 450,000 KM. Generally, coolant should be replaced every 60,000 to 100,000 KM, depending on the type of coolant and the conditions it's operated in. If it hasn't been changed in awhile, it may have lost its ability to protect your engine from overheating. Overall though, I'd definitely recommend getting that coolant level checked and topped up ASAP! Not only will this help protect your engine, but it will also likely turn off that pesky warning light on your speedometer. Best of luck with the repair, and I'll be here if you've got any more questions. Safe driving!

Hey! Excellent advice. You're right, it's been a long drive since the last coolant replacement. I probably missed it because I've been doing most of the routine service myself. It seems like I overlooked this important part, rookie mistake I guess! Your experience is a huge help, thanks for the detailed advice! I will surely get the coolant level checked, topped up and maybe ask them to swap in some new stuff while they're at it. Here's hoping that fixes the issue! I'll get back to you if I have any more questions or if anything else comes up. Thanks again for taking the time to help me out. Take care and happy driving to you too!