Toggle Side Panel

Shopping Cart

No products in the basket.

Shopping Cart

No products in the basket.

Close search
Home / DTC / P0128 — Defective Engine Thermostat, Defective Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor, Defective Intake Air Temperature Sensor, Defective Cooling System, Low Engine Coolant, Dirty Engine Coolant causing incorrect Coolant Temperature Sensor readings, Defective/always running Engine Cooling fan(s)

P0128 — Defective Engine Thermostat, Defective Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor, Defective Intake Air Temperature Sensor, Defective Cooling System, Low Engine Coolant, Dirty Engine Coolant causing incorrect Coolant Temperature Sensor readings, Defective/always running Engine Cooling fan(s)

Detailed page for trouble code P0128.

33,009codes
59brands
10,548generic
22,461specific
All codes P-codes (Powertrain) B-codes (Body) C-codes (Chassis) U-codes (Network/User) Tesla Alerts
Reset
Code

P0128

AUDI P — Powertrain

Defective Engine Thermostat, Defective Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor, Defective Intake Air Temperature Sensor, Defective Cooling System, Low Engine Coolant, Dirty Engine Coolant causing incorrect Coolant Temperature Sensor readings, Defective/always running Engine Cooling fan(s)

Brand: AUDI
Type: P — Powertrain
Views: UK: 32 EN: 53 RU: 63
AI status
Completed
ready
Completed 100%
Page language: EN

Causes

  • Thermostat stuck open or opening too early
  • Defective Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor or connector/wiring fault
  • Low engine coolant level or air trapped in cooling system
  • Restricted coolant flow (water pump, blocked passages, collapsed hose)
  • Contaminated or degraded coolant affecting heat transfer
  • Intake Air Temperature (IAT) sensor fault (causing incorrect warm-up strategy)

Symptoms

  • Check Engine Light (MIL) illuminated and P0128 stored
  • Engine takes a long time to reach normal operating temperature
  • Cabin heater produces weak or cold airflow
  • Reduced fuel economy and possibly richer-than-normal running during warm-up
  • Temperature gauge reads lower than normal or fluctuates
  • Cooling fans running more often than expected

What to check

  • Scan tool: read live coolant temperature (ECT) and IAT, freeze-frame data and readiness status
  • Inspect coolant level and reservoir for proper fill and contamination
  • Visually inspect wiring and connectors at ECT and IAT sensors for corrosion or damage
  • Confirm cooling fan operation and verify fan is not running continuously at low temp
  • Check for recent coolant service or air in system (signs of bubbles, recent repairs)
  • Compare heater output at dash (heater core warm-up) to coolant temperature readings

Signal parameters

  • Typical normal coolant operating temperature: 80–105 °C (176–221 °F) depending on model and thermostat
  • Thermostat opening (typical) ~85–95 °C (185–203 °F) — model dependent
  • Fans typically command ON around 95–105 °C (203–221 °F) (varies by model/engine)
  • Expected warm-up: coolant should rise steadily from ambient and reach ~70–90 °C within several minutes at idle or short drive — if it stays near ambient, suspect stuck-open thermostat or sensor fault
  • ECT sensor resistance/voltage: compare to manufacturer table with scan tool or multimeter (expected voltage decreases as temp rises; typical 0.5–4.5 V/OTC varies)

Diagnostic algorithm

  1. Connect a calibrated scan tool, read freeze-frame and live data: record coolant temp at cold start and after 5–10 minutes of idle/driving.
  2. Verify ambient temperature and compare expected warm-up time to observed data.
  3. Inspect coolant level, top up if low, and bleed air from system if required. Re-test warm-up behavior.
  4. Check ECT sensor: inspect connector and wiring for corrosion, measure sensor resistance/voltage and compare to spec. Wiggle test wiring while monitoring live data for intermittent faults.
  5. Confirm IAT sensor readings are plausible; replace or repair if out of range and affecting warm-up strategy.
  6. Verify thermostat operation: with engine cold, start and monitor temperature increase and feel upper and lower radiator hoses (use caution). A stuck-open thermostat shows little temperature rise/low delta between hose and engine block.
  7. If thermostat suspect, perform a controlled check by removing thermostat (if accessible) or replacing with correct OEM thermostat and retest.
  8. Verify cooling fan control: ensure fans are not commanded ON at low temps due to failed relay/module; check fan relay, temperature switch or control module.
  9. Inspect for restricted coolant flow: check water pump operation, heater core/hoses and radiator for blockages.
  10. After repairs, clear codes, perform a warm-up/drive cycle and confirm code does not return and readiness monitors set.

Likely causes

  • Thermostat stuck open (most common on Audi with long warm-up)
  • Faulty ECT sensor or intermittent connector/circuit short to ground
  • Low coolant level or air pocket after recent service
  • Cooling fan relay/stuck fan causing overcooling
  • Dirty or degraded coolant reducing heat transfer efficiency
  • IAT sensor fault feeding incorrect intake temperature to the ECU (less common)

Fault status

⚠️ Status
P0128 — Engine coolant temperature below thermostat regulating temperature; warm-up not achieved within expected time.
🟡 Repair difficulty: Medium
⏱️ Diagnostic time: 0.5-2.0 hours

Similar codes

P0125 P0117 P0118 P0112 P0113 P0480
HTML Workshop Manuals AI manual library for AUDI Click to show available manuals 2

AUDI 2015 A3 TDI Premium

HTML Manual
A3 TDI Premium Years: 2015 Manual in English Sections: 92,345 AI chunks: 92,345
Short description
AUDI · A3 TDI Premium · 2015
Open manual

AUDI 2015 A3 TDI Prestige

HTML Manual
A3 TDI Prestige Years: 2015 Manual in English Sections: 92,349 AI chunks: 92,349
Short description
AUDI · A3 TDI Prestige · 2015
Open manual
Workshop Manuals

Repair manuals for AUDI

11

6-speed manual gearbox 0B1, front-wheel drive — Workshop Manual (Edition 05.2014)

Workshop Manual
Years: 2008 Manual in English Pages: 187 4.9 MB
Short description

Workshop manual for the 6‑speed manual gearbox 0B1 (front‑wheel drive). Includes identification, technical data, gearbox/selector removal & installation procedures, clutch hydraulics, adjustment instructions and front differential service. Applicable to Audi A4, Audi A5 (Coupé, Cabriolet, Sportback) and Audi Q5 as referenced in the manual. Edition: 05.2014.

199,00 UAH
Contents
Key sections:
  • 00 - Technical data
  • 1 Identification
  • 1.1 Gearbox identification
  • 2 Technical data
  • 2.1 Allocation of gearbox to engine
  • 2.1.1 Allocation - Audi A4 2008 ►
  • 2.1.2 Allocation - Audi A5 Coupé 2008 ►, Audi A5 Sportback 2010 ►
  • 2.1.3 Allocation - Audi A5 Cabriolet 2009 ►
  • 2.1.4 Allocation - Audi Q5 2008 ►
  • 2.2 Capacities
  • 3 Transmission layout
  • 3.1 Transmission layout - front‑wheel drive
Buy

Audi A3 (1997) – 1.6L 4-cylinder (2‑valve) Engine Mechanical Components Service Manual (AEH, AKL, APF) – Edition 07.2002

Workshop Manual
Years: 1997 Manual in English Pages: 283 4.3 MB
Short description

Service manual for Audi A3 (1997) 1.6L 4‑cylinder (2‑valve) engines (codes AEH, AKL, APF). Includes technical data, engine removal/installation, crankshaft group, cylinder head and valve gear, lubrication, cooling and exhaust system procedures. Edition 07.2002.

199,00 UAH
Contents
Key sections:
  • 00 - Technical data ............................................................1
  • 1 Technical data ............................................................1
  • 1.1 Technical data .......................................................1
  • 1.2 Engine number .......................................................1
  • 1.3 Engine data ........................................................1
  • 10 - Removing and installing engine ..........................................3
  • 1 Removing and installing engine .........................................3
  • 1.1 Removing and installing engine ....................................3
  • 1.2 Removing - vehicles with engine codes AEH, AKL .....................4
  • 1.3 Removing - vehicles with engine code APF ..........................18
  • 1.4 Detaching engine from gearbox ...................................35
  • 1.5 Attaching engine to repair stand ................................38
Buy

AUDI A3 (2004) Workshop Manual — 2.0L FSI Turbo (4‑cyl, 4‑valve) Engine, Mechanics — Edition 03.2017

Workshop Manual
Years: 2004 Manual in English Pages: 235 3.8 MB
Short description

Official workshop manual for the Audi A3 2.0L FSI turbo engine (mechanics). Includes step‑by‑step removal/install procedures, technical data, tightening torques and diagnostic/repair instructions. Intended for professional garages and experienced technicians.

199,00 UAH
Contents
Key sections:
  • 00 - Technical data
  • 1 Engine number
  • 2 Engine data (code letters AXX, BPY, BWA, BHZ, BZC, CDL — capacity, power, torque, bore/stroke, compression, ignition)
  • 3 Safety precautions
  • 3.1 Working on the fuel system
  • 3.2 Procedure before opening high-pressure section
  • 3.3 Working on the cooling system
  • 3.4 Using testers during road test
  • 3.5 Working on the exhaust system
  • 4 General repair instructions
  • 4.1 Cleanliness rules for fuel/injection/turbo
  • 4.2 Checking fuel system for leaks
Buy

Audi A3 2004 — Electrical System (Workshop Manual, Edition 02.2018)

Workshop Manual
Years: 2004 Manual in English Pages: 150 68.2 MB
Short description

Workshop manual for the Audi A3 (2004) — Electrical system. Includes procedures for battery, starter, alternator, gauges, wipers, exterior/interior lighting and wiring. Edition 02.2018.

199,00 UAH
Contents
Key sections:
  • List of Workshop Manual Repair Groups
  • - 27 Starter, current supply, CCS
  • - 90 Gauges, instruments
  • - 92 Windscreen wash/wipe system
  • - 94 Lights, bulbs, switches - exterior
  • - 96 Lights, bulbs, switches - interior
  • - 97 Wiring
  • 27 - Starter, current supply, CCS
  • 1 Contact corrosion
  • 2 Battery
  • 2.1 Battery - general notes
  • 2.2 Maintenance-free batteries
Buy

Audi A4 / A4 Cabriolet – 4.2 l V8 (5‑valve, timing chains) – Workshop Manual (Mechanics) – Edition 04.2007

Workshop Manual
Years: 2001–2003 Manual in English Pages: 307 7.3 MB
Short description

Comprehensive workshop manual for Audi A4 (2001) and A4 Cabriolet (2003) with the 4.2 L V8, 5‑valve engine with timing chains (Engine IDs BBK/BHF). Includes step‑by‑step procedures for engine removal/installation, crankshaft and timing chain service, cylinder head/valve gear, lubrication, cooling and exhaust system repairs. Intended for professional technicians and service workshops.

199,00 UAH
Contents
Key sections:
  • 00 - Technical data
  • 1 Engine number
  • 2 Engine data (Codes: BBK / BHF; 4.163 l; 253 kW @7000 rpm; torque 410–420 Nm; bore 84.5 mm; stroke 92.8 mm; compression ratio 11.5; RON 98)
  • 3 Safety precautions
  • 4 General repair instructions (cleanliness, fuel system, contact corrosion)
  • 10 - Removing and installing engine
  • 1 Removing engine - vehicles with manual gearbox
  • 1.1 Removing engine (tools, drain fluids, remove bumper, lock carrier, disconnect wiring, fuel, coolant, A/C lines, suspension components, propshaft, exhaust, support engine on platform, lower assembly)
  • 1.2 Separating engine and gearbox (subframe removal, support sets, remove front exhaust pipes, bolt sequence)
  • 1.3 Securing engine to engine and gearbox stand (lifting tackle, VAS 6095 support)
  • 1.4 Installing engine (clutch remarks, alignment, torque values)
  • 2 Removing and installing engine - vehicles with automatic gearbox (procedure parallels manual gearbox with ATF/torque converter notes)
Buy

Audi A4 / A4 Cabriolet — Auxiliary Heater Workshop Manual (Edition 08.2004)

Workshop Manual
Years: 2001 Manual in English Pages: 259 2.0 MB
Short description

Workshop Manual for Audi A4 and A4 Cabriolet — Auxiliary Heater (Edition 08.2004). Contains self-diagnosis procedures, fault tables, electrical and fuel system checks, final control tests, CO₂ exhaust adjustment and step-by-step removal/installation and repair procedures. Intended for professional workshop use.

199,00 UAH
Contents
Key sections:
  • 01 - Self-diagnosis, electrical checks
  • 1 Auxiliary heater self-diagnosis
  • 1.1 Technical data of self-diagnosis
  • 1.2 Function
  • 1.3 Fault recognition
  • 1.4 Guided fault-finding
  • 1.5 Technical data of self-diagnosis
  • 1.6 Test requirements for self-diagnosis
  • 1.7 Safety precautions
  • 2 Self-diagnosis procedure
  • 2.1 Connecting vehicle diagnostic VAS 5051A/K-wire adapter
  • 2.1.1 Control unit identification
Buy

Audi A4 / A4 Cabriolet (1.8T 4‑cyl turbo) — Motronic Injection & Ignition System Service Manual (Edition 01.2015)

Workshop Manual
Years: 2001 Manual in English Pages: 34 851.0 KB
Short description

Service manual for Audi A4 (2001‑) and A4 Cabriolet (2003‑) with 1.8L 4‑cylinder turbo engines. Covers Motronic fuel injection and ignition systems, diagnostic and maintenance procedures. Includes technical data, removal/installation steps and system checks.

199,00 UAH
Contents
Key sections:
  • 24 - Mixture preparation - injection
  • 1 Safety precautions and rules for cleanliness
  • 1.1 General notes on self-diagnosis
  • 1.2 Safety precautions when using testers and measuring instruments during a road test
  • 1.3 Rules for cleanliness and instructions for working on fuel system
  • 1.4 Checking vacuum system
  • 2 Injection system
  • 2.1 Technical data
  • 2.2 Overview of fitting locations - injection system
  • 3 Intake manifold
  • 3.1 Exploded view - intake manifold
  • 3.2 Removing and installing intake manifold
Buy

Audi A8 (2003) — Electrical System Workshop Manual (Edition 08.2014)

Workshop Manual
Years: 2003 Manual in English Pages: 369 9.1 MB
Short description

Comprehensive workshop manual for the Audi A8 (2003) electrical system — Edition 08.2014. Covers battery, alternator, starter, instrument cluster, wiper/washer systems, exterior/interior lighting and wiring repair procedures with step-by-step illustrations. Includes diagnostic and adjustment procedures and torque/data specifications.

199,00 UAH
Contents
Key sections:
  • 27 - Starter, current supply, CCS
  • 1 Contact corrosion
  • 2 Battery
  • 2.1 Battery - general notes
  • 2.2 Maintenance-free batteries
  • 2.3 Disconnecting and connecting battery
  • 2.4 Removing and installing battery
  • - Remove luggage compartment side trim (right-side)
  • - Connect battery charger for back-up power
  • - Detach earth and positive cables, central venting hose
  • - Remove battery retainer plate and lift battery out
  • - Installation notes, adaptation via Vehicle diagnostic tester
Buy

Audi Q4 e-tron (Type F4) - Self-study Programme SSP 685

Workshop Manual
Years: 2021 Manual in English Pages: 186 82.7 MB
Short description

Official Audi Service Training self‑study programme SSP 685 for the Audi Q4 e‑tron (Type F4). Covers body, power units, power transmission, running gear, electrics & electronics, high‑voltage system, thermal management, driver assist and infotainment. Intended for internal service training and technical familiarisation; not a workshop repair manual.

199,00 UAH
Contents
Key sections:
  • Introduction
  • - Introduction to Audi Q4 e-tron
  • - Dimensions
  • Body
  • - Body structure and materials
  • - Joining techniques
  • - Securing high-voltage battery and force progression
  • - Body assembly (doors, rear lid, panoramic sunroof)
  • - Dash panel and centre console
  • Power units
  • - Technical data: rear electric motor (VX90)
  • - Technical data: front electric motor (VX89)
Buy

Audi Q8 (2018) — Electrical System Workshop Manual (Edition 05.2019)

Workshop Manual
Years: 2018 Manual in English Pages: 645 14.8 MB
Short description

Workshop manual for the Audi Q8 (2018) — Electrical System. Includes technical data, safety notes and step‑by‑step repair procedures for battery/charging, starter/alternator, lighting, washer/wiper and wiring. Edition 05.2019.

199,00 UAH
Contents
Key sections:
  • 00 - Technical data
  • 1 Safety precautions
  • 1.1 Safety precautions when working on vehicles with start/stop system
  • 1.2 Safety precautions when using testers and measuring instruments during a road test
  • 1.3 Notes on use and safety for LED headlights and Audi laser lights
  • 2 Repair notes
  • 2.1 Rules for cleanliness
  • 2.2 General notes
  • 2.3 Contact corrosion
  • 2.4 ESD (electrostatic discharge) workplace
  • 2.5 Routing and attachment of lines and wiring
  • 2.6 Identification plates
Buy

Audi Servicing Manual — 7‑Speed Dual Clutch Transmission 0CJ / 0CL / 0CK / 0DN / 0DP / 0HL (Edition 05.2018)

Workshop Manual
Years: 2008–2019 Manual in English Pages: 128 11.1 MB
Short description

Service manual for the 7‑Speed dual‑clutch (DSG) transmissions 0CJ/0CL/0CK/0DN/0DP/0HL fitted to various Audi models. Includes repair information, clutch and gearbox disassembly/assembly, mechatronic and hydraulic system procedures, seals and differential work. Edition 05.2018.

199,00 UAH
Contents
Key sections:
  • 00 - General, Technical Data
  • 1 Repair Information
  • 1.1 General Repair Information
  • 1.2 Contact Corrosion
  • 1.3 ATF Pump, Deactivating and Draining the Hydraulic Pump Reservoir
  • 2 Rules for Cleanliness when Working on DSG® Transmission
  • 30 - Clutch
  • 1 Clutch
  • 1.1 Overview - Flywheel and Dual Clutch
  • 1.2 Flywheel, Removing and Installing
  • 1.3 Dual Clutch, Removing and Installing
  • 1.4 Input Shaft Seal, Replacing
Buy
Your experience will help others
+100 karma for a short comment :)
Keep it short and practical. Up to 500 characters.
Send to email

Report

Harassment or bullying behavior
Contains mature or sensitive content
Contains misleading or false information
Contains abusive or derogatory content
Contains spam, fake content or potential malware

Block Member?

Please confirm you want to block this member.

You will no longer be able to:

  • See blocked member's posts
  • Mention this member in posts
  • Invite this member to groups
  • Message this member
  • Add this member as a connection

Please note: This action will also remove this member from your connections and send a report to the site admin. Please allow a few minutes for this process to complete.

Report

You have already reported this .