Tdi Owners....yes, You Do Need Your Booster Heater Working!

[JohnR]

OK, I knew my booster needed a new plug, but I figured I would wait for some cold weather to see how essential it was.

 

Basically, from a 2 degree ambient outside temperature (and 2.7 degree in the cabin), I drove my normal route to work with the temperature control wound up to max and the fans on full.

 

The journey is a mix of dual carriageway and cross-town. After almost 35 minutes, the cabin temperature had risen to an almost comfortable 16 degrees. However, having the heating and fans on full prevented the engine coming up to temperature. After the 35 minutes (nearly 12 miles) the engine seemed to have stabilised at about 75 degrees. Normally they run at 90 degrees.

 

Personally, I like to pop my stat at least every few days to keep the fluids circulating (filthy minds you lot!) Its pretty clear that in a normal UK winter you could go days or weeks without proper coolant circulation.

 

So, even if you can stand the cold tootsies, my strong recommendation is that you look after your engine and sort your heater out. I've just ordered a plug for mine from Martin (naughty, naughty....price just went up 2 quid!!).

 

John