XK8 / XKR ( X100 ) 1996 - 2006

Coolant Level Senor

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Old Apr 8, 2012 | 04:45 PM
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Default Coolant Level Senor

I am getting an occasional and random "Low Coolant" message. It doesn't appear that the coolant is low at all so I am suspecting the Coolant Level Sensor itself is acting up.

Does anyone have experience in removing the sensor from the pressure tank? Is it a "twist and pull" or is there some retaining tang or clip I can't see?

Here is the relatively inexpensive replacement:
More Information for AIRTEX / WELLS 5S11748

Thanks!
 

Last edited by Spurlee; Apr 8, 2012 at 05:21 PM. Reason: Spelling
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Old Apr 8, 2012 | 07:59 PM
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The sensor unit snaps into plastic fingers molded into the bottom of the reservoir securing it to the lip at the top of the plastic housing. Eighty percent chance of breaking the thin rosin tube the glass enclosed contacts are inside if you try to remove it without pulling the tank so you can see what you are doing. Using a screwdriver just pry down between the sensor connector and the bottom of the tank. Doesn't matter if you are replacing the senor as it is isolated from the coolant. Installation is easy as it just snaps in place.

Good chance that your problem is the magnet/float is hung up on some coolant gunk on the tube that it rides on. Use a long handled spoon or something similar to move the float up/down/around and see what happens.
 

Last edited by test point; Apr 8, 2012 at 08:02 PM.
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Old Apr 8, 2012 | 08:03 PM
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Or, like mine, the sensor mounting is kaput. A little finagling and a nylon tie keeps mine in place.
 
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Old Apr 8, 2012 | 08:46 PM
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My sensor itself is very loose, easily turns and can jiggle up/down some.

So there is a magnet sliding inside the tank! I will try freeing it up first.

Thanks!
 
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Old Apr 8, 2012 | 09:36 PM
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I swear, even when working properly, this sensor is incredibly sensitive. I have to top off mine every once in a while and end up barely adding any.
 
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Old Apr 9, 2012 | 08:46 AM
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Originally Posted by K.Westra
I swear, even when working properly, this sensor is incredibly sensitive. I have to top off mine every once in a while and end up barely adding any.
Don't complain about sensitivity or they might put the Temperature & Oil Pressure Gauge development team on calibrating it.

Graham
 
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Old Apr 9, 2012 | 09:43 AM
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Originally Posted by GGG
Don't complain about sensitivity or they might put the Temperature & Oil Pressure Gauge development team on calibrating it.

Graham
 
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Old Apr 9, 2012 | 10:58 AM
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Originally Posted by K.Westra
I swear, even when working properly, this sensor is incredibly sensitive. I have to top off mine every once in a while and end up barely adding any.
Shoot. Maybe I'll free up the floating magnet and just let the issue go - I only add a few ounces each time and it's only every few months or so. I think I'll just enjoy the car...
 
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Old Apr 9, 2012 | 11:55 AM
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Originally Posted by Spurlee
Shoot. Maybe I'll free up the floating magnet and just let the issue go - I only add a few ounces each time and it's only every few months or so. I think I'll just enjoy the car...

An excellent idea. I certainly understand and share your desire for mechanical nirvana with the car, and sometimes I have to shrug my shoulders and head out for a most excellent drive.
 
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Old Apr 9, 2012 | 12:15 PM
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Originally Posted by GGG
Don't complain about sensitivity or they might put the Temperature & Oil Pressure Gauge development team on calibrating it.

Graham

Originally Posted by K.Westra
Don't give me any ideas

 
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