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P0118Engine coolant temperature sensor circuit high

P0118 means “Engine coolant temperature sensor circuit high”. It's a generic powertrain code (fuel and air metering), so it means the same on every make, including VW, Škoda, Audi, SEAT and Cupra.

Fix soon
SystemCooling
TypeGeneric (same on all makes)
VCDS number16502

How urgent is it?

Worth fixing soon; usually drivable meanwhile, but watch for symptoms.

Which system and module

Scanline files it under Cooling. The first letter, P, means powertrain (engine, transmission, emissions).

Usually stored by the engine control unit (VCDS address 01, Engine).

What usually causes it

Sensor
open circuit

Typical causes are a starting point, not a diagnosis of your car.

Related codes

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Scanline explains fault codes; it isn't a repair authority. This page explains what the code means; it can't tell you what is wrong with your car. Ross-Tech's wiki has their own notes on VW Group faults.