Top Radiator Hose

[Jake1]

Hi,

Any ideas why the top rad hose is cold?

[EB2019]

Coolant temp sensor incorrect reading.
blocked coolant pipe or rad somewhere.
Thermostat faulty.
Blocked Heather matrix.
Expansion tank silica bag split.

Some ides to get you started 

[Jake1]

Thank you, have removed the bag not split luckily. Will book in for it to be checked over.

[EB2019]

lets us know how you get on, it all adds to the forum for future searches 

[SuperScaff]

Do the silica bags really split? I was told by a vw tech that it is a myth

[Adam T7]

Do the silica bags really split? I was told by a vw tech that it is a myth

GTI specialist told me that whilst not common, they have seen a few.

[EB2019]

Do the silica bags really split? I was told by a vw tech that it is a myth

We deal with supply of automotive garages daily and yeah it is an issue with VW and the entire VAG range. Not often but you don't want it to be you. Heater matrix blocked on an Audi recently at a garage was 4 figures to sort apparently.

[SRGTD]

Do the silica bags really split? I was told by a vw tech that it is a myth

It seems to be pretty normal for VW dealers to deny certain issues experienced by forum members are known problems, so I’d always take such comments by VW techs with a pinch of salt.

[Scottie-gti]

If you was to remove the silica bag do you have to change the coolant more often or use a different coolant?

[Adam T7]

If you was to remove the silica bag do you have to change the coolant more often or use a different coolant?

My understanding is the role of the silica bag is to help prolong the silicate life within the G13 coolant, meaning fewer changes. I removed mine for peace of mind and now every 6 months or so I syphon the expansion tank out by c. 500ml and top up with neat G13.