Paying attention to the car temperature gauge in your instrument cluster is vitally important when driving. You should check your temperature gauge frequently, just as you do with your other gauges.

Normal Range

When you look at your car temperature gauge, the needle should be in the center or just slightly below center (toward "C"). The temperature should be in that range any time you look at it.

High Temperature

If the temperature gauge is suddenly high, there are several possible reasons. One is that you have lost coolant. This could mean a slow leak, or it could mean a gradual evaporation. It could also mean the thermostat is broken and is not opening as it should to let coolant into the engine. Another possible cause of a sudden temperature rise is the failure of the water pump or water pump gasket.

Low Temperature

If the temperature is low and stays low, the thermostat is likely stuck open and is allowing a constant flow of coolant into the engine.

Steps to Take

If the temperature gauge is running high, then you can immediately turn the heater on in the car. If it is hot outside, then roll the windows down as well and direct the air vents away from the passengers.

This will cool the engine down quickly as you look for a place to pull over and check the water level. Never open a hot radiator. Instead, add water through the overflow tank if it is needed.