I recently replaced a failing coolant temperature sensor in my 2010 basic hatchback and I've had problems keeping the sensor secure in the water pump housing. I slide the retaining clip back into place and the sensor either pops up or is just loosely seated in the socket and can be pulled out easily by hand.

Is there a trick to getting this thing to stay properly seated?

 

Hello,

Did you upgrade to the new thermostat housing or is the sensor in the elbow metal tube?

 

The housing was replaced recently by a garage. The sensor doesn't sit in an elbow of a tube.

 

I would have them check it out since they worked on it. Its in the thermostat housing on the upper side of the engine correct?

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...housing-7.html

Should be right at the top, that brown sensor and should set with the green clip. Then there is an o-ring below it to make it snug. 11537547824 O-ring goes on the bottom of the sensor to the housing itself.

 

That looks just like it! I put the o-ring securely inside the housing, put the sensor on top and then clipped it again. It seems a little loose but somewhat secure. Perhaps I got it this time?

 

Black zip tie, the heat resistant kind. My securing clip broke on my R50's sensor and would pull out easily. After the zip tie it's been fine.

Edit: Heyyyyy 2nd Gen forum... Didn't realize I was in here. I know the housing is different, but I want to say the sensor is the same? Sorry if I'm wrong... I'll find my way out now.

 

Yes, that might be it. just not seated correctly on the gasket.

 

It's still loose. I turned it on and could smell coolant when the thermostat opened. I am surprised I am having so much trouble with something so trivial. I even compared the sensor to the bad one I replaced and both were the same size and shape.

I am open to more suggestions!

 

Fixed it today. I'll report on it for the sake of people who might have encountered a similar frustration.
Don't insert the o-ring into the body of the water pump housing. Instead, attach it to the sensor. Shove the clip in and then check to see if the sensor wiggles. If it doesn't - stop right there! don't keep fussing with the clip to make it look nice.