Jim Grant's Tech Tips
90
Dodge Spirit, Faulty Temperature Gauge and Warning Light
Q: I own a '90 Dodge Spirit
with a 2.5L. The temperature gauge shows that the engine is overheating
and the warning light is on. This happens when it's cold outside. Also,
the temperature gauge fluctuates between hot and cold while the engine
is idling. But, there are no apparent signs that the engine is actually
overheating. What could the problem be?
A: You
want to determine if your temperature gauge is reading accurately. The
simplest way is to have your technician connect a diagnostic scan tool
to your vehicle's computer. The computer uses a separate and highly accurate
temperature sensor to monitor coolant temperature. Comparison of the computer
readings to the temperature gauge readings will allow you to confirm that
the vehicle is actually overheating or if there's a problem with the temperature
gauge. Then the appropriate repairs can be made.
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