You must have the whole front of car took of or put in "service position" it does come of relatively easy. I'm not sure if radiator separates from rad support or if radiator and support are all one unit. Put in service position and go from there.. Hope this helps
How do I remove the headlight unit on a V6 TDI Passat year 2000?
Which engine, V6 or 1.8T?
If you have a 1999 Passat V6, the coolant temperature sensor is located in the lower radiator hose.
On a 2002 VW Passat V6, the radiator cap is located on the coolant reservoir, which is typically found near the front of the engine bay on the driver's side. The reservoir is a translucent plastic tank with a cap that can be identified by a coolant symbol. To access it, simply open the hood and look for the tank, then carefully remove the cap to check or add coolant.
5x112.5 same as Audi
there is a plug on the bottom of the radiator The drain plug is on the lower passenger side of the radiator. It is very hard to get to. It is easier to just remove the lower hose.
on the side of the radiator
http://phatcat_ed.tripod.com/V6.htm
Yes, The 1.8L, The V6, and the Diesel on these models are all interference.
On the 3.8 V6 it is below the throttle body on the front of the engine. You do not have to drain the radiator, just remove and replace. Then top off the radiator coolant.
The thermostat is located in the housing where the upper radiator hose connects to the engine.Remove the 2 bolts and remove the thermostat.
Drivers side behind the cat. :)