Tech Tip: Volkswagen Coolant Leak at Oil Cooler Hoses

If coolant is leaking at the oil cooler hoses on a 1998-2005 2.8L V6 Passat, it may be caused by the oil cooler turning when removing or installing the oil filter. When replacing the oil filter, observe the oil cooler when loosening the oil filter. If necessary, hold the oil cooler while removing the filter. If the oil cooler moves too far, damage to coolant hoses may result ....

If coolant is leaking at the oil cooler hoses on a 1998-2005 2.8L V6 Passat, it may be caused by the oil cooler turning when removing or installing the oil filter.

Service Procedure:
1. When replacing the oil filter, observe the oil cooler when loosening the oil filter.
Note: If necessary, hold the oil cooler while removing the filter. If the oil cooler moves too far, damage to coolant hoses may result.
2. If the oil cooler moves from its original position, with oil filter removed, loosen the oil cooler nut and adjust the cooler back to its original position.
3. Check the oil cooler hoses. They should not be twisted or pinched.
4. Tighten the oil cooler nut. Torque to 30 Nm.
5. Install the oil filter and tighten by hand, making sure that the oil cooler does not move.
6. Inspect the cooler hoses to ensure that they’re not twisted or pinched.

Courtesy of ALLDATA.

For information on products offered by ALLDATA, visit www.alldata.com.