16502moderate severityPowertrain
Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit High Input
on 2011 Audi S6 5.2L V10 · AWD
What this code means
The coolant temperature sensor signal is too high (OBD P0118), indicating an implausibly cold reading. Often an open circuit or bad sensor.
Symptoms
- Hard cold start
- Rich running
- Check engine light on
Common causes
- Open circuit in wiring
- Faulty coolant temperature sensor
- Connector fault
- Faulty ECM
Diagnostic steps
- Read live coolant temp data
- Inspect wiring for open circuit
- Test sensor resistance
- Check connector and pins
🔌 Don't have a code reader?
Any of these will read and clear this code — pick by how deep you want to go.
Bluetooth code reader (~$25)
Veepeak OBDCheck BLE →
Pairs with your phone — reads and clears codes, live data.
Serious DIY (~$100)
BlueDriver Pro →
Enhanced codes (ABS, airbag, TPMS) plus repair reports.
Shop-grade tablet (~$300+)
Autel MaxiCOM MK808S →
Bidirectional tests, service resets, all systems.
As an Amazon Associate, OLP earns from qualifying purchases — how we link. This never changes the specs we publish.
Other Powertrain codes on this vehicle
00532
Supply Voltage B+ Signal too Low
16394
Camshaft/Crankshaft Position Correlation Bank 1
16395
Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit/Open Bank 1
16486
Mass or Volume Air Flow Circuit Low Input
16487
Mass or Volume Air Flow Circuit High Input
16500
Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Malfunction
16501
Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low Input
16514
O2 Sensor Circuit Bank 1 Sensor 1
16515
O2 Sensor Circuit Low Voltage Bank 1 Sensor 1
16516
O2 Sensor Circuit High Voltage Bank 1 Sensor 1