Hi. Apologies if this is in the wrong place on here but need some advice from people who know their stuff.

I've got an 05 plate mk1 Vrs, the temperature gauge doesn't appear to move, ever!!! But seems to run absolutely fine!! When I get in the car, if it's really cold out and start the engine, after a few seconds, before I've even moved the car, the red temperature light comes on, flashes and beeps (engine is cold and just been fired up). I turn the ignition off and start it back up, no light, no beeps, and runs fine....

HELP PLEASE

The lack of gauge sounds like the coolant temperature sensor.  It has 2 pins for the ECU & 2 for the dash.  It could also be the gauge itself or wiring also?

 

The warning light is usually down to the coolant sensor inside the expansion tank.  Open the lid when engine cold & scrape the prongs with a flat bladed screwdriver

 

Cheers buddy, I'll give that a go and come back if that fails. Thanks again!!

Coolant temp sensor. Fit a genuine VAG CTS or you'll be buying twice.

Is it a simple fit? I'm not very technically minded so may have to get it done for me if need be.

Not that hard, but decide for yourself, guide link - http://www.briskoda.net/forums/topic/244609-how-to-replace-coolant-temperature-sensor/

Easy 5 min job to fit & about half an hour to bleed any air out.