QuestionQUESTION: Just purchased real clean 03 Tacoma - 2WD, TRD, 62K miles, super clean and runs great - but the temp gauge shows 1/2 up after immediately first mile or so - in moderate weather - going up to maybe 60%. Did pressure check, no leaks, check coolant level that totally clean and new, replaced thermostat - Still gives same half-way temp on gauge soon after startup. It does not get any higher than 55-60% on gauge even if going 80 mph on freeway w/AC on full in 75+ degree Los Angeles weather. What else can I do to get temp to show 1/4 up which I thought was the correct temp except on an excessively hot day, or under a heavy load/tow? Car runs great, but concerned that long term elevated temp will shorten engine life and precipitate increased maintenance.
ANSWER: Hi Mark, this is easy. you worm up the car or you can do it cold. just stick regular thermometer in your coolant and read it, and then take out you dashboard take front glass off and adjust the needle. turned countercklowise only.
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QUESTION: Thanks so much for your answer - It seems to imply that the car is not really overheating, but that the temp gauge needs to be re-calibrated. Is that correct? Do I adjust the needle inside the dashboard glass to match the temp on the thermometer? Your instruction was not clear. Or am I just moving the actual needle on the temp guage (which has no numbers at all)? What should the temp gauge on this year/model show under normal conditions? Are you sure this could not be a bad engine coolant temp sensor? Thanks for the followup answer in advance.
AnswerHi, temp guage will be in the middle or slightly over. you adjusted under the glass. you must only turn counterclockwise. But make sure first your engine temperature is OK under ALL engine loads.
When you turning that needle keep turning it till the place you need. you can turned around all the way, it is safe
