Nissan Repair: Temperature Gage on 2000 Nissan Altima, nissan altima, temperature gage

Question
The temperature gage on my 2000 Nissan Altima has started to fluctuate.  It fluctuates at a few Hertz, so I think that the problem is electrical.  It appears that the wire leading from the sensor has been damaged and I think that is causing the problem.  All other gages and the car seem to be working fine and the coolant level looks good.  My question is about how critical it is to get this fixed.  Does this sensor only control the gage on the dashboard or is it used as an input for the computer or the coolant system?  In other words, if the wire completely fails, am I going to be in trouble?

Answer
Tim,

I would correct he problem with the wire as you could get a false indication that might allow the engine to overheat.  The sensor that goes to the gauge is not the one connected to the computer so that is not an issue.  But, I would get it taken care of if it shorts you could cook the gauge and that would be more money down the road.