Cooling System Condensation
 

I have an 04 S Tiptronic and took the car out today for two hour long runs (~100 miles RT). At the end of the first run I noticed condensation on the rear trunk lid above the oil fill cap and cooling system cap. The liquid was clear and appeared & felt "oily". Both caps were on tight and pressure was released when I opened the cooling system cap. The car never went over temp during the drive; just stayed slightly over 180 deg F.

White steam was was also coming up from the area where the caps are.

I removed the cover under the caps and saw that the bleeder valve had little bits of crud surrounding all the bolts. I also noticed my cooling system cap is an original -01 (so I'll be replacing that as well).

I've seen other posts with similar situations, so I believe it's the bleeder valve. Anyone with a better diagnosis, please let me know.

Can anyone tell me if the bleeder valve can be easily replaced or can it be rebuilt? Can anyone let me know the what the part number is?

Thanks in advance

I get some condensation more in colder weather
I have the newest cap. I don't ever see steam. My purge valve had crust as well.
There are two O rings in it and I have been meaning to replace them

Had the same problem. Here's the link to my exploits.

http://986forum.com/forums/performance-technical-chat/47325-my-first-question-bleeder-valve.html

Or cracked coolant reservoir. Pull up the carpet ans see if there is coolant on the floor, if so, it's more than likely the reservoir.

Ordered the new cap today for $19 @ a u t o h a u s AZ; dealership wanted $52 - OUCH

@kk2002S - check out Spinnaker's link, he provides the p/n's for the o-rings

@Spinnaker - Thanks so much for the link - this gave me everything I need

@ San Rensho - That will be the next item. I'll check the floor before working disassembling the bleeder valve.

I appreciate your help & advice