VW Multiple Temperature Sensor Failures Fixed Here

I had a similar issue with my VW T5 from 2005, and I have some experience working with temperature monitoring systems in vehicles. The symptoms you describe match closely with what I encountered, particularly the outside temperature sensor malfunction affecting multiple systems. My vehicle displayed identical issues with the AC, washer nozzles, and heated mirrors, along with the check engine light. After sensor diagnostics at my local workshop, they found that the wiring harness connecting to the temperature sensor had deteriorated, causing intermittent connection issues. The repair involved replacing the damaged wiring and connector assembly, which resolved all the temperature-related problems. The total cost was 95€ for parts and labor. Before suggesting specific solutions, could you provide: The engine type and size, Whether any diagnostic codes have been read, If the temperature readings on your dashboard display fluctuate or show incorrect values, When these issues first started occurring This information would help determine if your issue matches what I experienced with my vehicle sensor problems and allow for more targeted advice. Keep in mind that sensor issues can be tricky to diagnose since temperature monitoring systems are interconnected with multiple vehicle functions.

Latest service was at 51000km. Thanks for sharing your experience. Just got the diagnostic codes read today. Got error P0073 which confirms the outside temperature sensor malfunction. The vehicle temperature gauge started showing unusual readings last month, sometimes jumping between -20 and +40 even during normal weather. The wiring connection point looks corroded, so your experience with the wiring harness issue seems relevant. Will get both the sensor replacement and wiring checked since its affecting multiple systems. Did your repair include sensor calibration after the fix? Just wondering about the full repair process before booking the shop visit.

Thanks for the additional details. The diagnostic code P0073 matches exactly what I encountered with my T5. The erratic temperature readings between -20 and +40 strongly indicate both sensor failure and wiring issues, just like my case. After my initial wiring harness repair, the mechanic did perform sensor calibration as part of the vehicle temperature sensor replacement process. This calibration step was crucial, without it, the new sensor might not communicate properly with the vehicle systems. The complete repair sequence in my case involved: Replacing the corroded wiring harness, Installing a new temperature sensor, Running sensor diagnostics to verify connections, Performing sensor calibration, Testing all affected systems The calibration process took about an hour, but it ensured all temperature-dependent systems worked correctly afterward. The AC, washer nozzles, and mirror heating all returned to normal operation. One tip from my experience: request that they check the connector housing for water ingress while doing the repair. Water damage at the connection point was the root cause of my corrosion issues, and fixing that prevented future sensor problems.

My engine is a 2.5L diesel with about 51000km. After checking the codes and finding P0073, along with seeing those wild temperature gauge readings between -20 and +40, I feel more confident about the repair direction. Really helpful to hear your similar experience with the wiring harness and car temperature sensor issues. Based on the symptoms matching and seeing the corrosion at my wiring connection point, I will definitely have them check both the sensor and wiring. Good to know about the sensor calibration being part of the process, will make sure to ask the shop about including that in the repair. The detailed breakdown of your repair steps is exactly what I needed. Will have them inspect for water damage at the connection point too, since that could explain the corrosion I am seeing. Going to book the appointment tomorrow and make sure they cover the complete temperature sensor replacement process you described. Hope it sorts out all the issues like it did in your case. The unusual temperature monitoring problems with the AC, washer nozzles, and mirrors have been quite annoying. Thanks for walking me through your repair experience.