QuestionDear Mr. Iwashita,
I would appreciate if you answer my question concerning coolant gauge indications on my 1998 Nissan Quest minivan.
When I drive, it almost never rizes above "C"- cold. When I idle on purpose or stand in traffic, or drive in very hot weather, the pointer rizes almost to the middle of the "Normal" range. Upper radiator hose always feels full and hot.
Is the gauge designed like that to stay near "C", or it is indication of faulty thermostat or coolant sensor? Should I worry about engine operating temperature that does not rise to be in the "normal" range? I recently bought this car and not sure if this issue represents a problem.(In my 1992 Plymouth Voyager coolant temperature gauge always stays in the middle when engine reaches operating temperature.)
Many thanks in advance for your reply.
Sincerely,
Leonard Manevich
AnswerHi Mr. Maevich -
What you explain is probably normal. As long as the needle does not indicate that the engine is running too hot.
When your thermostat opens at about 185 degrees, that is when the water will start circulating and the temp goes to normal.
To check this, next time you run the car feel not only the top hose, but the lower as well. During warm up although the top hose may get warm, the lower will stay cool until the thermostat lets water into the engine. As soon as you feel the bottom hose get warm, the gauge should go up.
Hope this helps -
aloha
calvin
