View source for 18613/P2181/008577

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== 18613/P2181/008577 - Performance Malfunction in Cooling System ==

==== Possible Symptoms ====

* Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) ON
* Reduced Heater Output - Cold toes
* Incorrect Temperature Gauge Readings 
* Increased Emissions


==== Possible Causes ====

* Faulty Coolant Sensor
* Faulty Coolant Thermostat
* Faulty Wiring, Connections

''Note'': This fault code sets when engine coolant temperature mapping is lower and out of expected range based on operating conditions of the engine.
* For example: Engine warms up, thermostat opens and stays open, coolant temperature drops below normal operating range. The ECM knows the coolant temperature should stay within 80.0...110.0 °C typically after warm up. Thus a drop in coolant temperature below normal operating temperature is not possible without a '''Malfunction in Cooling System'''.



==== Possible Solutions ====

* Check G62 - Engine Coolant Temperature Sender <br>
** Inspect wiring for G62 (Coolant Migration, damage, corrosion, etc)

* Check (if applicable) G83 - Radiator Outlet, Coolant Temperature Sender <br>
** Inspect wiring for G83 (Coolant Migration, damage, corrosion, etc)

* Check Coolant Thermostat
**  Use Graph function in VCDS, Measuring Value Blocks - MVB
** Start Engine cold, graph Coolant Temperature Sender (G62) Typically MVB Group-001
** Hold RPM around 1,500rpm and watch coolant temp increase in Graph until thermostat opens, indicated by a slight drop in coolant temp
** If coolant temp drops below minimum operating temperature (80°C) or never reaches operating temperature, (verified by external thermometer) suspect failed thermostat

* Vehicles with both G62-Engine Outlet, Coolant Temperature Sensor and G83-Radiator Outlet, Coolant Temperature Sensor
** Use Measuring Value Block group MVB-130 instead on MVB-001
** G62 should increase in Temperature before G83 increase when engine coolant is cold
** G83 will increase when the thermostat opens and after G62 reaches operating temperature (80°C)
** If G62 and G83 both increase while engine warms up, suspect failed thermostat



==== Special Notes ====

* Check the stored Freeze Frame data with this fault code.  Freeze Frame information will be found in the fault code description (if the module supports it) or in Generic OBD-II if the vehicle complies with those regulations.
** Freeze Frame data stored at -40*C is generally an indication of a faulty ECT or wiring.
** Freeze Frame data stored at +140*C is generally an indication of a faulty ECT or wiring.
** Freeze Frame data stored with in the 68*C ~ 80*C range is an indication that the vehicle was close to, but not within, the cooling systems normal operation range. The Thermostat itself or Cooling system components may be at fault.



[[Category:Fault Codes]]