Expert: Sean Halliday - 6/20/2006

Question
I own a 91 Audi 200 turbo. After i start the car there's a coolant light comes on. I'm not sure overheating or the Sensor? Because the the Temp gauge doesn't work..What should I DO? To fix or find problem.

Answer
yes definately get it fixed.You  have a sensor for coolant level which is usually the one thats faulty and one for engine temp,if it comes on as soon as you start up its unlikely to be overheated,cos the engines still cold,just get it checked anyway because if your turbo is water cooled you will wreck it if it overheats,get a proper reading from your engine when its warmed up after 10 mins or so of idle.you didnt say if you noticed any leaks from under the car ,,coolant?......you can get the temp tested at a shop and get both sensors repaired cos once your engine overheats then it gets expensive as you will blow the head gasket for sure and do all kinds of damage specially with the turbo.