
The oil temperature sensor is located at the bottom of the oil pan, on a small block attached to the oil pan. Below is relevant information about temperature sensors: 1. Working principle: In automotive terms, a temperature sensor is a device that measures temperature, providing signals to the instrument cluster for engine coolant temperature, to the cooling fan, and to the ECU for fuel injection correction. Its working principle: The coolant temperature sensor is a negative temperature coefficient thermistor, where resistance decreases as temperature rises, and conversely, resistance increases as temperature drops, thereby providing a varying signal to the ECU. 2. Classification: Temperature sensors utilize various physical properties of materials that change with temperature, converting temperature into electrical signals. These regularly changing physical properties mainly include... Temperature sensors are the core components of temperature measurement instruments, with a wide variety available. Based on measurement methods, they can be divided into contact and non-contact types, while according to sensor materials and electronic component characteristics, they are classified into thermistors and thermocouples.

I've seen many Magotans at the maintenance shop, and their oil temperature sensors are usually hidden near the oil pan under the engine. If you crawl under and follow the edge of the oil pan, you'll find a small cylindrical component with a wiring harness on the side close to the firewall, wrapped in a black dust cover. Some cars hide it near the oil filter base, requiring removal of the underbody shield for a clear view. For convenience, you can check it on a lift—otherwise, searching under the car can be quite a backache. A strong flashlight and a mirror can be a big help. Just remember to work when the engine is cold, or the scalding hot oil will teach you a lesson.

Owners of the Magotan often ask me this question. The sensor is usually located on the engine oil passage, most commonly on the upper part of the oil pan or near the main oil passage interface. Last time when I helped a friend replace the sensor, I discovered a trick: first disconnect the battery, then remove the engine cover to see the wiring harness routing. Don't be fooled by its small size—about the size of a bottle cap—don't yank the connector forcefully; you need to press the clip first. When installing a new sensor, make sure the sealing ring is properly seated, otherwise oil leakage will be a bigger headache. A reminder to everyone: if this thing fails, it doesn't just give false readings; in severe cases, it can trigger engine torque limitation, and repairing it once costs enough to buy three cases of engine oil.

From the perspective of engine thermal management, the placement of this sensor is quite deliberate. Volkswagen group prefers to install it adjacent to the oil pressure sensor, sharing the oil passage measurement port. I've personally tested this on three generations of EA888 engines - the location is always on the side of the cylinder block near the crankshaft position. Look for the silver alloy housing with a two-wire connector. During installation, use a 24mm socket and remember to apply anti-seize compound on the threads. I've encountered cases where DIY owners stripped the threads, eventually requiring oil pan replacement. My suggestion for mechanically challenged individuals: leave it to professional technicians.


