2001 new beetle

[backtoschool]

I know this subject has been brought up before about engine code 1296.Ive changed the temp. sensor and continue to get this code. Does anyone know if this code is a part of another problem? It doesnt affect the performance of the engine that I can see.

[IndyTom]

Try this: (This is from a member that changed out the coolant sensor but his CEL did not turn off):

Now at this point others have said the CEL then turned off on their Bug, or after a few minutes or so. Mine did NOT turn off... so not having a code reader, here is what I did...

Look at the coolant resevior in the upper left hand corner of the engine compartment. There is a two pin sensor connection near the top - unplug this. (grasp plug with thumb and index finger and push, then pull plug out from coolant housing. )

Start your Bug - after a few seconds (me about 20-25) your red temp light should flash and your instrument cluster will beep at you. Turn off engine and reconnect coolant resevior sensor connection. Restart your bug and the CEL should be cleared.

(note: if this was a resevior problem - I would guess that the sensor in/on the resevior would trigger the coolant light, not the CEL - others have seem to have confirmed this. If you get a p1296 you might want to try unpluging this sensor before replacing the coolant hose one. My guess is once the resevior error is cleared by reconnecting it - this clears the CEL. You could of course just find someone with a VAG-COM and do it the right way! )


Here is the entire link:
p1296 solved!!!