Engine Cooling

Because towing places higher demands on the engine cooling system, the cooling system is enhanced in vehicles that have factory-installed trailer hitches, if necessary. This is done by installing a stronger or a second coolant fan and/or a larger radiator. Vehicles designed for hot climates and/or with an A/C system already have the enhanced engine cooling system. In the Passat, a stronger coolant fan (PR number 0Y2) may also be installed alone at the factory. This makes it easier to install a trailer hitch later.

The cooling system should also be enhanced when a trailer hitch is retrofitted, if the system was not already modified at the factory. Otherwise the cooling system could overheat under increased engine load, for example when driving in mountains, in high temperatures or with high towing weight. When converting the cooling system, use the engine cooling system components designed for towing listed in the ETKA electronic parts catalog. Refer to the procedures in the applicable repair information.

Enhancing the cooling system may only be avoided if the engine will only be under moderate load, for example:

• the combined weight is considerably less than the permitted amount,
• no high outside temperatures,
• no long, steep grades,
• no driving at high altitude.

The coolant temperature gauge must always be monitored closely. If the needle in the gauge moves high into the hot zone, reduce speed immediately. It may be necessary to take a break to allow the engine to cool. When doing this, let the engine run at idle for approximately 2 minutes to prevent heat buildup.