2000 Volkswagen Beetle coolant level sensor

KMARSHALL

MEMBER
2000 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE

Engine problem
2000 Volkswagen Beetle Manual 53000 miles

Three nights ago, the coolant level sensor light came on in my 2000 Beetle. The level looked low, so I added antifreeze. Drove home (20 miles) without problem. The following day, drove about 10 miles and the light came on again. The antifreeze level looked okay, but added a dribble of antifreeze. Hours later, I drove home, and again the light came on after about 10 miles. (Each time I continued driving for approx. 3-5 miles.) Didn't drive yesterday. This morning, the level looked the same, but the car would not start. The engine did turn over, but then just shut down. Could this be anything more than just needing a new coolant level sensor?

1 Reply

EXOVCDS

MECHANIC
1,883 POSTS

I know this is an old post, but if someone else is reading this.

Although the light is used for fluid level, it is also used as an
overheat indicator.

If the fluid level is correct, then I would want to make sure that
the engine is not running too hot.

These engines have problems with plastic water pump impellers
breaking. Which causes the engine to overheat / run hot, due to
coolant/water no longer circulating correctly.

A new water pump & timing belt kit will fix the problem.