What causes fluctuating engine temperature?
One common cause is a defective thermostat, a component that is inexpensive and easy to replace. Other causes of a fluctuating temperature gauge are a failing radiator fan, insufficient coolant level and a leaking cylinder head gasket. A failing radiator fan will be erratic.
What happens if your car overheats in stop and go traffic?
Engines that run too hot are at risk of complete destruction, as the engine block itself can warp when there’s too much heat. When engines overheat, it generally happens at any speed; however, there are times when the engine will be fine at speed and only begin to get too hot when the vehicle is idling in stop-and-go traffic.
Why does the temperature rise when the car is not moving?
When you start driving air is flowing through the radiator and cooling the engine. The fans should be doing that when the car is not moving, but for some reason they’re not. Check the fuses for the fans first. If the fuses are OK you’ll have to start checking the fan relay, the wiring, and the fan motors themselves.
Why does temperature gauge go to high when car is stopped?
It is normal for this to occur, especially in warmer climates such as Arizona or Nevada. If it continues to rise into the red, then it is definitely a problem however. The next possibility has to do with air flow through the fins of the radiator. Look through the fins of the radiator from the front of the car.
What should the coolant temperature of my car be?
This will likely be somewhere in the 160 to 190 degree range based on what your drive. Another thing to consider when watching your engine coolant temperature is what the engine cooling fans are set to.
It is normal for this to occur, especially in warmer climates such as Arizona or Nevada. If it continues to rise into the red, then it is definitely a problem however. The next possibility has to do with air flow through the fins of the radiator. Look through the fins of the radiator from the front of the car.
When you start driving air is flowing through the radiator and cooling the engine. The fans should be doing that when the car is not moving, but for some reason they’re not. Check the fuses for the fans first. If the fuses are OK you’ll have to start checking the fan relay, the wiring, and the fan motors themselves.
Engines that run too hot are at risk of complete destruction, as the engine block itself can warp when there’s too much heat. When engines overheat, it generally happens at any speed; however, there are times when the engine will be fine at speed and only begin to get too hot when the vehicle is idling in stop-and-go traffic.
Why does the temp rise when the engine is idle?
Start the engine and let idle while at the same time watching the temp gauge. As the temp gauge rises, check to see if the radiator fan engages. If it doesn’t, there’a a problem in the fan circuit.