For those that remember my wet carpet thread, clearing out the plenum drains and usage, now that the Passat isn't very well, has dried out the interior. Still got the sunroof to seal to the roof and the drains to clear, but I think the major culprit was the leaf mulch in the plenum.

Next problem....

The fuel gauge VERY rarely moves from the empty and the reserve light is lit. Plus the temp gauge is hit and miss, showing the temp, maybe once on a journey, then diving back to the zero. If it's relevant, the air bag light is on. Has anyone seen this before? It has been suggested that the battery be disconnected overnight and this may cure it, but as I don't have the radio code, I don't want to do this before I'm ready to replace the stereo with an aftermarket headunit.

Any suggestions?
Can anyone tell me how many litres the tank holds? I's a '99 Brava 100SX.

Thanks
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Rene

the temp gauge problem is common, thump your fist above it and it should start working again. the fuel gauge is less common, it is usually due to a fault sender unit at the tank.

the 1.6 fuel tank holds 50litres

jug said:

the temp gauge problem is common, thump your fist above it and it should start working again. the fuel gauge is less common, it is usually due to a fault sender unit at the tank.

Click to expand...

I've battered the top of the dash mercilessly to no avail makes no difference, it still wanders up to normal temp when it feels like it. The ECU seems to see the right temprature, it's not running rich and the auto box changes different when the engine is warm. Do the gauge and the ECU use the same sensor? If not, where is the gauge sensor?

Cheers
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Rene

on the 1.6 there is only 1 coolant temp sensor for both the gauge and ecu.

i would try replacing the instrument panel to see if that cures it (you will need to adjust the mileage).

it is also possible that the thermostat is stuck open causing overcooling, have you checked if the coolant hoses are hot when gauge says cold?

I believe the thermostat is ok. The heater blows warm by the end of the road and proper hot within a couple of miles, although I haven't checked the hose temp. Where is the sensor? I'll try earthing it with the ignition on, that should give a full hot reading at the gauge.
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Rene

sensor is fitted to the thermostat housing.