Water pump replacement TFSI

[Rust81]

Hi all, after some advice from the community please. I have a 2014 A4 Avant with the 1.8TFSI engine (170bhp version). For the last few months I’ve been getting an intermittent EML and car going into limp mode. It happens when the car is up to temp and the gap between the two journeys is quite short, eg within 30 minutes so that the car is still warm from before. If I turn the car off and on again the EML goes away and I have full power. 

 

I took the car to my local independent VAG specialist and they have suggested replacing the water pump & thermostat as it comes as one unit, but cost is over £1k all in. There’s no sign of coolant leaking on the pump. Obviously keen not to spend that level on a £4k car but wanted to get advice on repair & cost? Thanks 

[Magnet]

Welcome Russell,

To me, I’m finding it very difficult to link the diagnosis to the symptoms! 
Would suggest you consult another trusted independent. 
Does the coolant temperature stay constant at around 90 C and get to that temperature within about 3 miles? 
Regards,

Gareth. 

[Rust81]

Yes stays at 90. When the EML comes on, if you stop then restart, that journey also stays at 90. 
 

But on the one occasion the EML came on and we didn’t stop/re-start, it went just above 90 and fans were blowing hard. That’s what made me finally book it in. Error code is P00B700  

 

 

[Rust81]

Are there any sensors that can be replaced or are they all part of the water pump?

[cliffcoggin]

Like Magnet, I am not convinced the water pump has anything to do with the symptoms.

Before committing to any major expense I suggest you get the battery professionally tested. A failing battery can cause limp mode and false error messages, amongst other problems.

[Rust81]

Thanks - it’s had a new battery 6 months ago but it wasn’t coded. That said it must recognise it’s a new battery as the start/stop is now working

[cliffcoggin]

Maybe, but lack of coding can lead to the new battery being damaged by the charging circuits so I still suggest you get it tested.