[bdog840wv]

2004 Passat 1.8T Coolant Dripping Above AC Compressor

Hello, I have a 2004 Passat 1.8T and was getting ready for work in the afternoon and come to find a small puddle of antifreeze on the passenger side I wiped my finger under the AC compressor and it was wet with coolant dripping somewhere from above. I'll check the coolant line too the turbo and see what's up there. I had the water pump replaced twice at the shop which was covered with no charge for the second service. My misfortune seems like every summer I have issues with the cooling system. I was wondering if anyone has any advice I'd really appreciate your feedback, Thank you. Brandon

 

[VAGguy]

That's pretty much all that is on that side of the engine that is fed by coolant. The turbo., that is...

 

[woodardhsd]

I would guess it's the line from the large radiator hose on the driver side to the turbo. It's relatively easy to replace. Mine was leaking behind the heat shield where it curves around the cylinder head near the turbo.

 

[John_E]

... or it's the U-shaped hose between the turbo and the block -- much more entertaining to do

Been there ... done that.

 

[Emry]

I had the same issue a few weeks ago. Although it seemed that top of the A/C compressor was wet with coolant but it turned out that the flange was leaking. When the coolant flange cracks or warps the coolant starts its journey all over the places. I suggest you check it out.

 

[bdog840wv]

Thank you for all your help everyone I noticed a small puddle of coolant under the transmission and found the leak it's the bugger flange on the back of the engine.

Are Dorman parts any good?

 

[VAGguy]

I've used Dorman parts for other things, but not coolant related. Not a bad brand in a pinch. Stock part isn't much $$
https://www.amazon.com/Volkswagen-E...1-1-2093--&vehicleName=2004+Volkswagen+Passat

I haven't had a need yet, but other members are going for an aluminum replacement.
One example below. Find a reputable vendor, though.
https://www.amazon.com/Upgraded-Con...oolant+flange&qid=1564569973&s=gateway&sr=8-5

Oh, and make sure you replace the coolant temp sensor while there for peace of mind.

 

[vwdoc1]

Thank you for all your help everyone I noticed a small puddle of coolant under the transmission and found the leak it's the bugger flange on the back of the engine. These transverse 1.8T's are a pita too work on I replaced the coolant flange on my Jetta a couple of summers ago and that was a snap.

Are Dorman parts any good?

JMHO and if you need the flange:
I only recommend the VW brand coolant flange. I have seen aftermarket flanges warp and it is no fun having to change it again in 1 year.
Need a new seal for the CTS also change the heater hose seal if you can find one along with the seal for the pipe that bolts onto the flange.
If you take off the Combi-Valve it makes the job easier, so you might order a new gasket for that too.

Note how the brackets are positioned for the oil supply line for the turbo (lower stud) and the two other brackets for the crankcase ventilation pipes (top stud/bolt).

 

[PZ]

OEM or Aluminum for the flange. I have the Aluminum on mine.

 

[bdog840wv]

My Passat is still in the garage they ordered the flange but still waiting (about a week) on the o-ring seals for the heat core pipe and flange the VW dealer only supplies them. I'm not sure why the seals are not included with the coolant flange as a kit. They said there was another leak under the intake. Awesome.

 

[AndreasPassat]

the o-ring seals for the heat core pipe and flange the VW dealer only supplies them.

Why can't the dealer source out stuff like that? There are places that sell/make O-rings that fit the application at hand.
Just a rhetorical question/statement. but honestly...

 

[VAGguy]

Why can't the dealer source out stuff like that? There are places that sell/make O-rings that fit the application at hand.
Just a rhetorical question/statement. but honestly...

I know, right? I have a whole case of o-rings in different diameters and thicknesses.