Volkswagen Passat Temperature Sensor

They measure different things and are used in different locations. An intake-air sensor reports air temperature to engine controls; a coolant sensor reports the temperature of the cooling system. Select the part intended for the affected circuit.

The output depends on the vehicle's wiring and controls. One listed one-terminal coolant sensor is specified for an application with a gauge, while other sensors provide information to an engine control unit. Match the intended circuit, not only the sensor name.

The number of terminals reflects a product's connection, but it does not identify every signal or the sensor calibration. Current coolant-sensor listings include examples with one, two and three terminals; use the sensor specified for the vehicle and system.

A damaged connector, wiring fault or an actual temperature-control issue can affect the result. Check the sensor connections and wiring; a thermostat fault can also produce a coolant-temperature-related code.

It measures battery-related temperature for the vehicle's electrical management on equipped applications. It is not the engine coolant sensor, even if both products are grouped under temperature sensors.