VW Temperature Sensor Failure Disrupts Multiple Systems

Had a similar issue on my 2014 VW Golf GTI. The symptoms match what I experienced, multiple sensor malfunction warnings and temperature-related systems not working properly. The root cause was a damaged wiring harness near the front bumper where the car temperature sensor connects to the main system. Water had corroded the connection points over time, causing intermittent sensor readings and system failures. This created a cascade of issues affecting the AC, mirror heating, and temperature gauge readings. The repair required replacing the vehicle temperature sensor and its wiring harness, plus sensor calibration to ensure proper communication with the car's computer. While not mechanically serious, leaving it unfixed can lead to more extensive electrical issues and potential damage to connected systems. My recommendation would be to have a certified shop inspect the wiring and sensor connections specifically. The error code should help pinpoint if its a sensor replacement issue or just connection related. These temperature sensor problems are fairly common on VW models from that generation, especially once they pass 100000km. Worth getting a second opinion since proper diagnosis of sensor-related issues requires specific diagnostic equipment and expertise.

Thanks for sharing that experience with the GTI. Your sensor diagnostics situation sounds exactly like what Im dealing with on my Spacefox. The wiring harness tip is particularly helpful since I was wondering if it might be just a sensor issue. Quick follow up, what did the repair end up costing you? And have you had any temperature sensor problems since getting it fixed? Just trying to budget for this and make sure its a lasting solution before I head to a new shop.

Got good news to report back. After having a certified shop look at it, the outside temperature sensor issue was fully resolved. Turned out the problem wasnt as complex as my initial GTI repair, just a faulty cable connection that needed fixing. Total cost came to 95€ for the repair, which was much less than I originally paid for my complete sensor replacement. The car temperature sensor now works flawlessly, no more erratic readings or system malfunctions. All temperature-dependent features like AC and mirror heating are functioning normally. The sensor diagnostics showed it was really just that loose connection causing all the trouble. If your Spacefox symptoms are similar, you might be looking at a straightforward fix too rather than a full vehicle temperature sensor replacement. Been about 8 months since the repair and no temperature sensor related issues have popped up. The investment was definitely worth it for reliable sensor operation.

I finally decided to take my Spacefox to a different certified VW shop, and Im really glad I did. The mechanic found that water damage had affected the temperature sensor wiring, similar to what you experienced. However, in my case, they discovered multiple connection points needed cleaning and resealing, not just replacement. The total repair came to 160€, including a thorough sensor calibration and testing of all affected systems. While it was a bit more than your repair cost, its been worth every cent. The AC now works perfectly, the mirror heating is back to normal, and the temperature readings are consistently accurate. The mechanic also showed me where the problem originated and explained how to spot early warning signs of sensor issues in the future. Been driving for about three weeks now with zero temperature monitoring problems. Really appreciate your advice about getting that second opinion, it definitely saved me from potentially bigger issues down the road.