QuestionI have a 1990 Honda. The temp. gauge was reading at the high point even though engine was not really overheating. Mechanic couldn't figure it out. He removed the thermostat so then the gauge read at just below the midpoint and eventually stopped registering anything most of the time but once in a while it moves up to the midpoint for awhile. Also the check engine light comes on intermittantly. I can't live with the temp gauge not working because the car might really overheat and I wouldn't know!!Can you help? Thanks so much!
Answerhmmm... kinda need more info.. but i will take a stab. if he "couldnt figure it out", then there should be much more that he did.
first, taking out the thermostat is never a good 'fix'. anyone that could really call themselves a tech, that is not a valid option.
now...
-its not terribly common, but the gauge sender can go out. that is a simple 2 min change out.
-the thermostat itself could have been sticking
-the radiator could be partially clogged
-a fan could be dead or going out. take notice of the temp when driving vs sitting still in traffic. for a quick check of the fans, turn on the a/c and both fans should come on. if one is blowing but not really moving some air with a decent roar then it is worn out and needs replaced.
-the real way to confirm overheating is not trusting the gauge. an infrared temp gun will give the actual engine temp. a partially overheating engine and a intermittently bad/dying part or any combination of things will complicate this supposedly easy fix
John
