Cooling system, draining and filling: Draining

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 25 other vehicles, including the 2002 Volkswagen Cabrio, 2001 Volkswagen Cabrio, 2000 Volkswagen Cabrio, 1999 Volkswagen Jetta, and 1999 Volkswagen Golf. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Remove cap from coolant expansion tank.
Remove retaining clip -3- and separate connection -2- from thermostat housing -4-.
Remove coolant hose -1- or remove thermostat housing -4-.

Fig 1: Removing Retaining Clip And Separating Connection From Thermostat Housing
Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA, INC.