Code # on 2003vw beetle

Check here:
http://auto.manualsonline.com/manuals/device/automobile.html

it is problem with cooling,check if two fans are running with airco on,
if yes,check codes again,look at freeze frame data,
look for temp and time indication,with engine temp and rpm,
if temp is not high,check fan motors resistance,
one broken with ohm too high?

need to hav a data stream run at a pro shop for accuracy--cud be computer problem or fuel delivery or ignition isuues

hi,there is a fuse on the radio it self on the back it sould be removed.the radio will show a safe display on screen,the radio code is normally in service book but if it is not u can get it at a vw dealer by giving them the cars vin num and radio serial num the serial num wil be on top of the radio wen it is removed.hope this helps

when a service person says "I think" , it is time for you to find a real mechanic that knows
Reading fault codes instead of I think is a better way to go to get the real fault fixed
find an accredited service shop that has experience on your make of vehicle , get the fault codes read and a quote

I think you could
use this manual method instead.. My nephew who is a full time mechanic uses most of the times, and all mechanics look up to manuals. It's very easy he gets it from. www.reliable-store.com

CODE P2181 COOLING SYSTEM PERFORMANCE MALFUNCTION CONDITIONS - ECT SENSOR HAS FAILED. 2.0L ENGINE ECT LOCATION IS ON THE UPPER RADIATOR HOSE CONNECTION AT THE REAR OF THE CYLINDER HEAD. 2.5L ENGINE ECT IS ON THE UPPER RADIATOR HOSE CONNECTION ON THE CYLINDER HEAD ALSO.CHECK COOLING FAN FUSE AND RELAYS

I recommend taking your car to your local auto parts store like AutoZone. They will hook up their diagnostic computer free of charge and generate your error codes. They can also decode the codes and tell you what may be the proximate cause. Same thing the VW Dealer will do for a charge of $65 (but AutoZone is FREE). One of the codes probably relates to a bad seal on your gas cap (try removing, cleaning and replacing). One of the other codes might be indicative of a bad oxygen sensor. They cost $20+, so you want to be certain before you start a replacement. There are between 2-3 oxygen sensors on your car.

Sorry I couldn't be more descriptive.

WD- 40 does wonders, just don't pull too hard on the lens.

I think I remember running into this once before and found a factory rear speaker amplifier in trunk that stayed powered on then we replaced the amp and the new one did the same thing . then checked radio coding and it wasn't set to proper code so it didn't know to turn off the amp. changed the coding to correct setting and bingo problem solved. hope that might help but coding can only be done by dealership.