Cooling system, draining and filling: Draining

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 1999 Audi A8, 1998 Audi A8, and 1997 Audi A8. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

WARNING: The cooling system is pressurized when the engine is warm. When opening the expansion tank, wear gloves and other appropriate protection, cover the cap with a cloth, and open carefully to relieve system pressure slowly.

Carefully open cap of expansion tank (to release pressure), then close it again.
Remove noise insulation panel.

Fig 1: Removing Noise Insulation Panel
Remove left air grille in bumper.
Place drain pan VW 1306 (or equivalent) below vehicle.
Attach drain hose, approx. 12 mm (1/2 in.) inside diameter, to drain fitting at bottom left of radiator.

Fig 2: Attaching Drain Hose To Drain Fitting At Bottom Left Of Radiator
Route other end of drain hose into drain pan.
NOTE: Always drain coolant into a clean container.
Open coolant drain plug through air intake grille opening in left side of bumper.

Fig 3: Opening Coolant Drain Plug Through Air Intake Grille Opening
Open drain plug at left of engine below knock sensor.

Fig 4: Opening Drain Plug At Left Of Engine Below Knock Sensor
Open drain plug on oil cooler housing behind oil filter.

Fig 5: Opening Drain Plug On Oil Cooler Housing Behind Oil Filter
At radiator, disconnect return line to expansion tank.
Hold pipe connection at radiator closed with finger.
Blow compressed air into detached return line until coolant no longer flows out of any of three drain openings.