VW Caddy Cooling Issues: Blocked Radiator Alert

Had a similar situation with my 2014 VW Golf TSI. The engine cooling system showed identical symptoms, erratic temperature gauge readings and slow warm-up times. The check engine light was also intermittent. Initial inspection revealed significant radiator blockage. Beyond just the cooling grille being clogged with leaves and road debris, the radiator core itself was partially blocked. A thorough cleaning helped but did not completely resolve the issue. The real problem turned out to be more complex, a failing thermostat and a partially clogged coolant passage were causing improper engine cooling. The restricted coolant flow was making the ECU receive incorrect temperature readings, triggering the check engine light. This turned into a significant repair job requiring: Complete cooling system flush, Thermostat replacement, Radiator core cleaning, ECU diagnostic reset Engine overheating issues should never be ignored as they can lead to severe engine damage. While cleaning the cooling grille is a good start, given your symptoms, its worth getting a proper diagnostic done. The combination of erratic temperature readings and check engine light suggests this could be more than just external debris buildup.

Thanks for sharing your experience. I dealt with something similar on my Caddy last year. The thermal management issues you described sound exactly like what I went through with the temperature fluctuations. Getting the cooling system properly diagnosed ended up being the right call since it revealed multiple issues beyond just the clogged radiator. Did you end up sorting it all out? Would be helpful to know what it cost you in the end. Also curious if youve had any recurring problems with the car overheating since the repairs were done.

After getting everything properly fixed, my Golf hasnt shown any automotive cooling issues for over 8 months now. The complete diagnostic and repair work fixed both the cooling grille restriction and a blown fuse that was affecting the temperature sensors. The total repair costs broke down to: Cooling system diagnosis: 85€, Cleaning and debris removal: 120€, Fuse replacement: 52€, Coolant flush and refill: 95€ The investment was worth it since the car now maintains stable temperatures and warms up normally. No more erratic gauge readings or check engine lights. The thermal management system works perfectly after clearing all the blockages and replacing that faulty fuse. Getting a professional to check the entire cooling system was definitely the right choice rather than just trying to clean the grille myself. They found issues I would have missed, and the comprehensive fix prevented any potential engine damage from chronic overheating.

Thanks for the advice. I took my Caddy to a new mechanic last week and the diagnosis matched what you described. Beyond the visible radiator blockage, they found issues with the cooling system that needed attention. The repairs included: Full cooling system inspection, Removal of debris from radiator grille, Replacement of worn coolant hoses, New thermostat installation, Complete coolant flush Total came to 475€ but the car runs perfectly now. Engine temperature stays steady and warm-up time is back to normal. The check engine light hasnt returned. Really glad I got it checked properly instead of just trying to clean the cooling grille myself. The restricted airflow was only part of the problem. Having a competent mechanic catch these issues early probably saved me from serious engine problems down the road.