How can I find out what my engine coolant temperature is?
The best place to start in comparing your vehicle’s normal engine coolant temperature to see if it’s correct is with your thermostat setting. If you call your local auto parts store, like one of our partners below, they will be able to tell you what temperature your engine’s thermostat is designed to start opening.
What should the temp of the coolant sensor be?
Check that the temperature value of the CTS is around 80-90c when the engine is hot. A lot of engine coolant temperature sensors have two wires and the sensor is controlled by Ohm. Get a wiring diagram and get what ohms you should have at a specific temperature to check the function.
When to check your coolant or antifreeze level?
You’ll also see markings on the side telling you the low and high levels to work with. Always check your coolant level when the car is cold. If you happen to have an older vehicle without a visible overflow and fill tank, you’ll have to check the antifreeze/coolant level by looking into the radiator.
Where can I get a coolant mixture tester?
You can test your coolant mixture easily with an inexpensive coolant mixture tester that can be bought at any auto parts store. Remember, never try to remove your radiator or coolant reservoir cap while the engine is hot.
What happens when the coolant temp sensor goes bad?
If the coolant temperature sensor goes bad it can send a false signal to the computer and throw off the fuel and timing calculations . It is not uncommon for the coolant temperature sensor to fail and send a permanently cold signal to the computer.
What should my coolant temperature be?
Coolant can be anywhere between 180 and 220 degrees F. Thermostats are rated for the minimum temperature of each specific model.
What is the correct coolant temperature?
Coolant with a 50/50 mix of water and ethylene alcohol (anti-freeze) can function at temperatuares as cold as negative 36 degrees Fahrenheit. The acceptable range for an engine to run at sits between 195 degrees and 220 degrees Fahrenheit. This assumes a person is running a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and water.
What is a “normal” coolant temp reading?
The stock coolant gauge will show ‘normal’ at about 150*F or so. Maybe a touch less. So the thermo is probably stuck closed, or the ECT sensor is bad but doubtful.