Coolant warning light but coolant levels at max & car "running" hot

Common problem .... The sensor probes get coated with crap buildup inside the radiator. Locate where the enter the radiator ,,, remove the probes and do a good job cleaning them Google "how do you clean coolant sensor probes" I have no idea how they come out but on a GM they use a retainer clip on some models

Hi Tom and thanks so much for your reply. I would feel comfortable with that (combined with some online research that this seems common with VW). But combined with the car "running hot", temp gauge normal, having to replace the thermostat (unsure if that was required!!) and yesterday having the entire contents of the radiator empty itself after a 5km run. I can't help feeling there is something else going on (maybe with the radiator?? or coolant blockage??) and my car was correctly trying to tell me something? I will be ringing the garage today, I feel they are just going through a process of elimination (and an expensive one at that). I have been in there 2 or 3 times last month, because of concerns at how "hot" the car smelt after short run (5kms) you could have cooked your dinner on the bonnet, side panels, lights etc. Wasn't like this when I first had car. Anyways, thanks again for your advice. Deb

This is a post at ~ http://forums.tdiclub.com/showthread.php?t=272564 Same problem as you and the new pump had composition (plastic) parts that failed ... Make sure the replacement pump is all metal ... no composition impeller. Below is the persons story regarding his overeheating. "The old water pump had a plastic / composite impeller which appeared to have worked itself loose from the impeller. The new pump is made by Graf and has a metallic impeller. " Good luck

Thank you I will check that post out. Appreciate your time. So much information on the internet, gets a bit overwhelming sometimes. Deb

You need to get your Thermostat valve checked ASAP.

Defo a blockage in the coolant system it will act like thermostat is broken even tho it’s not. Get a good second hand radiator if still problem then must be faulty water pump mate

also get fan checked as module in main fan fails common problem should show on diagnostics get a copy of your vagcom report from a garage or see if anyone can do a quick scan for you

I've got one for you guys I've got a 2002 Volkswagen golf I have an issue with my temperature sensor light coming on gets hot pull over that cool off I've got to put antifreeze in it I checked my oil there's no water or antifreeze in my oil. when it cools off I have to put antifreeze in it then I can drive it again can somebody tell me what is wrong with my car. Engine has 6800 miles on it new timing belt new water pump new electric fans I've had in the shop they said there's nothing wrong with it. Can somebody tell me what is going on where my antifreeze is going there's no leaks I've checked looked all over