Audi Repair: 1992 audi quattro 100 cs, temp gauge, specialized tools

Question
Thanks for your time! My temp gauge seems to be rising very quickly. I just got
an oil change, but the coolant resivour tank is hot to the touch but full. This is a
new car to me so I am concerned that the car will over heat

Answer
Hi Andrew,

How fast does it rise?? normally it should take approximately 5 mins from cold if your driving, slightly longer if its in idling to get to the half way mark. I doubt that there's a problem but if you are worried then there could be a few causes.

On older vehicles you might find 'crust' forming in the coolant circuit including the radiator and in turn this crust blocks off the circuits and this reduces the cooling capacity. try an ' over the counter' radiator flush to see if that helps, although in worse cases you might have to get the flushing done by a professional, who has specialized tools, or even replace the whole radiator.

another cause can also be a thermostat that doesn't open all the way and in turn reducing the flow of water causing the temperature to rise.

Does the fan kick in when the gauge hits the half way mark by the way??