Thermostat Replacement: Do You Need to Disassemble Everything?

Hi experts,

My thermostat seems to be broken; it first rises to 90 degrees and then immediately drops to 75-80 degrees! My workshop says that for my A4 2.5 TDI from 2000, the entire bumper including the radiator etc. has to be removed in order to access the part! So, about 25 euros for the thermostat and about 200 euros for labor! THAT is INSANE! They said that if the temperature doesn't drop below 70 degrees, they won't do anything, supposedly it's not harmful...

Okay, here's my question to you: Has anyone ever done this before (on that engine)? Where is the part located, and do I really have to disassemble everything? Or are there any tricks to it?

Thank you everyone, and have a great weekend!

merlin

Hi,

Please check the temperature when the engine is warm . I wouldn't necessarily trust electronic displays! It could also be due to the temperature sensor... on the 1.9L engine, it's screwed into the side of the cylinder head.

Best regards, Christian.

I've already taken my temperature! It's like this!!!!!! Sometimes it's only 74 degrees!

Hello Merlin, in my records, I can only find that you'll locate the thermostat on the AFB (AKN) by following the coolant hose from the radiator to the engine on the right-hand side (in the direction of travel). You will then encounter a cover (on the engine?), behind which the part is apparently hidden. There's also a drain screw located on the water outlet next to it.
I hope this helps you.
Best regards, Jan.