Another cooling system question...

[EvilKuja30]

So, I've recently started popping up a random P2181 performance malfunction in cooling system.

It's so random and shows no signs of any other problems that I'm confused. Temp gets hot, stays exactly where it should be, 200. Never gets a tick hotter, or even close to above 200. Air works, heat works fine. No loss of power. It only seems to come on when I really put my foot down.

I've done some searching and seen the Coolant temp sensor for ~36$ from ECS so I plan to replace that and hope it fixes it, but, I've read that improper coolant mixture can also throw this code? And if it was a thermostat sticking, wouldn't it take a long time to heat or overheat?

I really don't want to get into replacing the thermostat and housing as I've seen that they're ~400$ job, and I really don't have that to blow. Thanks in advance.

[UGPassatB6]

Just a FYI, the temperature gauge isn't an exact readout as the dial shows. You get the same information as an "idiot light", where it only goes higher if the engine is severely hot.

[Tutti57]

There are also 2 coolant temp sensors.

[EvilKuja30]

Anyone know anyone who wants to do a t-stat job and possibly a trans flush in the pittsburgh area? Cash & beer...lol. Also posted over in the regional forums, anywhere else you guys would suggest to look?

[rumrunner123]

Did you replace the temperature sensor with the part from ECS?

I am having the exact same problem with p2181 coming up periodically.

[gilotin661]

sounds like your thermostat is sticking....
try cooling flush