VW Caddy Temperature Sensor Triggers Multiple Failures

I dealt with nearly identical issues on my 2021 VW T-Cross last winter. Having some experience with temperature-related car problems, I recognized these symptoms immediately. The outside temperature sensor was indeed causing multiple system malfunctions. My vehicle temperature gauge showed incorrect readings, and like yours, several temperature-dependent systems started failing. The temperature monitoring system kept throwing error codes. After attempting basic sensor diagnostics at home, I took it to a workshop where they found a damaged cable connection to the temperature sensor. The wire insulation had worn through, causing intermittent connection issues. The total repair cost was 95€, which included replacing the connection and testing all affected systems. The fix resolved all issues, AC started working normally, washer system functioned properly in cold weather, and mirror heating returned to normal operation. To help troubleshoot your case more effectively, could you share: Current odometer reading, Specific error code displayed, Whether these issues occur more frequently in certain weather conditions, If the temperature reading on your dashboard fluctuates out of nowhere These details would help confirm if your Caddy is experiencing the same sensor connection problem I encountered.

Last service was done at 110000km and the error code P0073 shows up consistently. The temperature readings are all over the place, jumping from -20 to +40 degrees within minutes. A complete sensor replacement rather than just fixing connections might be needed, based on these unusual fluctuations. Looking at the symptoms mentioned, especially the erratic temperature monitoring behavior, I agree this points to a faulty outside temperature sensor. The consistent error code appearing across multiple system checks reinforces this theory. My main concern is whether the sensor malfunction could cause damage to other systems if left unaddressed. The AC and mirror heating issues are inconvenient, but I worry about potential long-term effects on the engine management system. Would appreciate info about typical sensor replacement costs and whether this is something that requires dealer-level diagnostics or can be handled by a regular shop.

Having gone through this exact situation with my T-Cross, I can definitely speak to your concerns about the P0073 code and erratic temperature readings. The sensor malfunction symptoms you describe are even more severe than what I experienced. While my issue was resolved with a cable repair, your temperature monitoring fluctuations between -20 and +40 degrees strongly suggest a complete sensor failure rather than just a connection problem. The outside temperature sensor itself needs replacement in your case. Regarding your concern about system damage, the good news is that while these sensor issues affect comfort features, they rarely cause permanent damage to other vehicle systems. The engine management system has fail-safes to prevent temperature-related damage. The complete sensor replacement typically costs between 150-200€ including labor. Any competent repair shop can handle this, no need for dealer-specific sensor diagnostics. The replacement process is straightforward and usually takes under an hour. Key points about the repair: New sensor unit costs around 80-100€, Labor time approximately 45 minutes, Basic sensor diagnostics to confirm fix, System reset required after installation Consider getting this fixed soon, while not immediately dangerous, continued sensor malfunction can affect fuel efficiency and comfort systems performance.

Thanks for the detailed info about sensor replacement costs and timeframes. Your experience matches what I discovered through my research. Since my temperature readings are much more erratic than yours were, going for a complete vehicle temperature sensor replacement makes sense rather than just checking connections. I will book an appointment with my local repair shop rather than the dealer since you confirmed they can handle the sensor diagnostics and replacement. The 150-200€ total cost seems reasonable, especially considering how many systems are affected. The confirmation that this wont cause permanent damage to other systems is reassuring. I will get it fixed next week before the temperature monitoring issues start affecting fuel consumption too much. Good to know its a relatively quick fix that should resolve all the current problems with the AC, washers and mirror heating. Thanks again for sharing your experience. It helped confirm my suspicions about the temperature sensor being the root cause rather than multiple separate issues.