Question about a cable going into engine

[emperorphobos]

Hello everyone.

 

I just bought this '99 C4 and I'd like to know if someone knows what's this cable on the photo (it's not from my car).

 

I removed it accidentally and when I tried to push it back something dropped (like a rubber?) and I have no idea what to do now.

 

 

[Loren]

:welcome: 

 

It goes to a sensor that reports the engine compartment air temperature.

The sensor mounts in a metal holder and they sometimes get bumped and fall out.

Just put it back in the holder and you are done.

[emperorphobos]

Thanks so much, that's what I did, I place it back. Just wanted to be sure. I have other errors as well - misfire cylinder 1 & engine light and trying to figure out what to do. Thanks!

[Loren]

For your misfire you can switch the spark plug to a different cylinder and see if the misfire follows it.

If not try the same thing with the coil pack. That should tell you where the problem most likely is. 

[fpb111]

You may have already figured this out but just in case.

The rubber that dropped is the grommet that holds the temp sensor in the metal bracket.  If you haven't already done so put the grommet onto the sensor and then push it into the bracket.

[emperorphobos]

Thanks, I think I lost the grommet, but somehow I can push it there and stays for 3-4 drives. 

[Orient Express]

That sensor and its grommet is a real pain in the ***.  This especially true if you show your 996 in Concours.  There is always the overzealous judge that wants to reach way back on top of the engine to find dirt, and will unwittingly push the sensor down, and the grommet pushes out and fall down in the engine.  And of course there is no way to retrieve the grommet without removing the engine.  I have had this happen to my 996 several times, so I ended up taking a new grommet and adding super glue to its seating groove so it is in there good now.