Is a Passat's Water Temperature of 100 Degrees Normal?
2 Answers
It is normal for a Passat's water temperature to reach 100 degrees Celsius for a short period, but maintaining 100 degrees for an extended time is abnormal. The normal water temperature should be between 80-90 degrees Celsius. Most engine-specific antifreeze can withstand a maximum temperature of around 110 degrees. Here is some information about antifreeze: 1. Introduction to Antifreeze: Antifreeze is a type of coolant containing special additives, primarily used in liquid-cooled engine cooling systems. It has excellent properties such as preventing freezing in winter, boiling in summer, and protecting against scale and corrosion all year round. 2. Functions of Antifreeze: Engines and their cooling systems are made of metals, including copper, iron, aluminum, steel, and solder. These metals, when in contact with water at high temperatures for prolonged periods, can corrode and rust. Antifreeze not only prevents corrosion in the engine cooling system but also offers anti-corrosion and rust-removal functions.
Having run a repair shop for ten years, I can honestly say that when a German car like the Passat hits 100 degrees Celsius, you really need to be cautious. The ideal coolant temperature should stabilize just above 90 degrees during normal driving. If it consistently hovers around 100 degrees, there's definitely an issue. German cars have precision-engineered cooling systems—problems could stem from a clogged radiator, degraded coolant, or a stuck thermostat. Brief spikes past 100 degrees while climbing hills with AC on in summer are understandable, but if this happens on flat city roads, get it checked immediately. Last week, a Passat owner ignored the overheating warning and kept driving, resulting in a seized engine—repairs cost nearly 20,000 RMB. Remember: if the needle approaches the red zone, don’t push it. Pull over safely, turn off the engine, and call for assistance.
