Temp gauge goes up and down while driving. Common Issues Several .
Temp gauge goes up and down while driving. Aug 7, 2021 · A car’s temperature gauge is one of the most important gauges in your vehicle. There are several factors that can cause your coolant temp gauge to fluctuate wildly. Press the gas and the temp goes back to normal, let off the gas and the temp starts climbing. Thats basically what mine does, once I have driven for 30 minutes or so it evens out to between 201-203. This is a sign that the thermostat is not reading the engine’s temperature correctly and releasing the coolant at the wrong times. Aside from the cause, know the fixes. Aug 23, 2024 · When it malfunctions, you may notice the temperature gauge going up and down. Find out how a stuck open thermostat can cause this issue. Oct 15, 2011 · I was driving my car today and noticed the temperature gauge wouldn't go past the the top of the 2 bottom bars. My Banks confirms the temp change. when driving on the highway, engine temp will go up for about 30 seconds and drop and be fine until the next time I start it up again. The Problem is that my temp gauge is going up and down. Any help is much appreciated. At that mark, my scanner shows a coolant temp of 219 degrees. Or the engine temp sensor is acting up or the gauge is acting up as well. I?ve had the thermostat, water pump, temperature sensor all replaced, but keep having the same issue. The temperature gauge will, however, not maintain one position but will move up and down in a haphazard manner. Mar 22, 2021 · Driving around town and local, coolant temp stays between 195 and 205ish. Feb 9, 2005 · :confused: What would cause my temperature gauge to drop to Cold while driving? When I stop and let the engine idle, it returns to the normal range. Read on as we Apr 25, 2025 · Car temperature gauge goes up and down while driving means your engine is overheated and needs a quick fix. That will tell you for sure if the temp is fluctuating. If the oil pressure gauge fluctuates, examine the oil level first and top it up if essential. While brief spikes may be normal, wide swings between hot and cold Aug 4, 2025 · The car temperature gauge fluctuates. There could still be air in the cooling system…. I stopped, added a little water to the May 23, 2025 · Reasons Why A Car Temperature Gauge Goes Up And Down The temperature gauge can fluctuate up and down because of a bad thermostat or a lack of coolant. Once running, your engine can reach temperatures up to 220 degrees Fahrenheit! If you’re driving your car and the temperature gauge is stuck on high, low, or going crazy, the issue is most likely with your thermostat. From that point on, the gauge was steady on the normal operating temp for the next 150 miles until the trip ended. The gauge itself or the temperature sensor connected to the gauge may be broken, or there may be issues with some of the engine’s other components that are giving you a false reading. On the highway and higher speeds 70km/h+, the temperature gauge goes from 90 to 130 and then back down all in 2-3 mins. It just Fluctuates, normal or do I need to repair something. It also used about a half gallon or less of coolant about every other Dec 18, 2024 · At idle temperature seems to be fine but as soon as I give it throttle the temperature gauge goes up, cutting power and throttle response. Reply reply ZookeepergameFew1167 • We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. It’s also possible that there is air in the cooling system. Should you be concerned when your car’s temperature gauge fluctuates while driving? In short – yes, you should pay attention when the reading is inconsistent. In other words, the battery gauge goes up and down due to the stress caused by high current levels. Hopefully, you checked the coolant level in the radiator before starting the trip! Jan 15, 2022 · 2015 - 2020 Ford F150 - Fluctuating Temperature Gauge Issues - I have a 2016 F150 3. Connect a scan tool that can read live data…. They show your engine’s heat levels. So at that one spot the temp is going up and down. Learn how to diagnose and fix this issue for a worry-free drive. Nov 3, 2020 · The main reason why car temperature gauge goes up and down while driving is because something is not working properly in your car’s cooling system. Radiator requires air flowing thru it to cool down coolant, if fan isn't pulling enough air thru rad when stopped then temp rises, when moving the air flow returns and temp drops. very weird, any ideas on what this could be. When you look a Aug 2, 2018 · Here's something that we used to see a lot, but I don't remember seeing in quite a while. Read on as we talk about some of the top reasons, and more importantly, the best solutions when a car temperature gauge rises and falls. ambient Temperature today is 19 Celsius (66. Very hot. When the temp goes up, it’s automatically shutting off the a/c (which is no bueno in FL). Here is a more detailed list of the reasons why your car temperature gauge goes up and down: #1. This is primarily due to the changes in temperature that your vehicle undergoes. How to Fix the Car Temperature Gauge Going Up and Down. Aug 19, 2025 · If you notice the temperature gauge on your dashboard fluctuates up and down while driving, it’s likely an issue with the car. Temperature Regulation Mechanism The thermostat opens and closes to control the flow of coolant. also, this is in the middle of winter when it's about -20 out. Feb 4, 2024 · Since this was a good time to aslo replace reservoir tank and reinstall a oem radiator this completed a refurbished cooling system as well as lubrication system, however I have had coolant temp gauge fluctuates somewhere at 180 degrees F to to 210 degrees F, system has been bleed out air possibly however the gauge fluctuations has me spent out Also Check Out: • Car Revving In Park: 6 Common Causes and Fix • REASONS YOUR TEMP GAUGE GOES UP AND DOWN | Your support is much appreciated as we put a lot of work into our videos. The reason why your car’s temperature gauge rises and falls while driving is that a component in your car’s cooling system is malfunctioning. some cars have air bleed off points. As the engine warms up, the thermostat opens to allow coolant to flow through the radiator. You should be fine if the gauge is exactly between the Cold and the Hot side. This issue happens for various reasons, and most of them are simple to troubleshoot. It goes on and of with a recall they need to fix (waiting on parts) anyways as I'm driving along. the gauge will go from 1/2 (normal) and spike up to 3/4 then 30 seconds later back down, then a minute or so later it will spike almost to redline! 248*! then with the Jun 10, 2025 · Why Does My Coolant Temp Gauge Go Up and Down? Now that we’ve covered the basics of coolant temp gauges, let’s explore the reasons behind this mysterious behavior. Temperature readings go from idle at 215 to a very hot 245-250 once I get moving. So I look at the temp gauge and it's Nov 11, 2019 · The engine in your vehicle runs hot. Jul 5, 2019 · It's normal to see fluctuation in temperature while you're towing a trailer. Dec 5, 2013 · 2011 Cruze 1. If it's warmed up and all, it shouldn't drop below the normal 205-215 range. The temp gauge fluctuates from normal (185-200) jumps to 250-270 than immediately back to normal. Oct 11, 2022 · We'll go over some of the most common causes of an oil pressure gauge fluctuating, as well as some potential solutions. Dec 30, 2020 · The needle got up to the quarter tick mark on the temp gauge then went down to around the 1/8 tick mark all while driving normally at normal speeds, and didn’t really go up much from there. Jan 16, 2024 · If your temperature gauge is reading abnormally high but your car isn’t actually overheating, there are a few reasons this might be happening. Consequently, it… Aug 12, 2020 · Remember too that the coolant temperature is taken from the coolant at just the location of the sensor. How to Fix Trapped Air Bubbles Why Does Coolant Level Go Up And Down? 1. Role In Vehicle Health The gauge’s role is simple. 5L Ecoboost that keeps having issues with fluctuating engine temp. Jan 13, 2015 · Fan clutch not engaging all the way causes temp gauge to go up when at a stop light and then temp goes down to "normal" when moving again. Remove the gauge cluster bezel and the gauge cluster. It never went into the red, but I slowed down and it moved back to the normal level with a few bumps up and down again for about 30 miles. It monitors coolant temperature. My car has 139000 miles. Not only will we go over how the temperature gauge operates, but we’ll also go over how to keep the engine from overheating. Low coolant levels or coolant leaks can lead to insufficient heat absorption, causing the engine to overheat. However, if your problem is not fixed, we advise you to visit a mechanic or your car’s dealer. I haven’t actually had it overheat yet as the light changes or I’m able to go, upon which the temperature rapidly drops back down. However, if the gauge goes up and down randomly, then there may be an underlying problem that needs to be addressed. Besides providing useful information regarding the temperature gauge, my article also covers the main causes of What should you do? Ideally, you should take it to your dealer or mechanic of choice. Aug 17, 2015 · With the replacement, on a day with similar ambient temps, the gauge would go up to and sometimes a tick higher than the 3/4 mark. Started driving home and the temp gauge would move from normal to hot. Sep 24, 2023 · You hop in your car, turn the ignition, and notice the temperature gauge is bouncing around. No thats about it. A car temperature gauge is a powerful car component that keeps your engine's health in balance and monitors its temperature level. A normal reading is crucial for safe driving. 98 crown vic. Jun 4, 2023 · Beautiful morning; you start your car as usual but find that something has gone wrong – the car temp gauge fluctuates at idle out of control! So, what caused this problem, and how to fix it most effectively? Don’t worry, because this article is here to solve all your problems. So that you can stop and let it cool before it becomes a major issue. Learn why your temperature gauge drops when driving and rises when idling. 2°F), Im worried when summer comes, temperature here goes up to 40 Celsius (104°F)!!!! Nov 30, 2023 · My particular problem is when the truck is at idle (after getting up to operating temp) either parked or sitting in traffic the temp gauge will max out and stay until I get moving or fluctuate way above normal operating temp. While setting in line, it goes up to about 220 and then the fan kicks in and brings it back down to 205 or so. Feb 21, 2016 · I have worked on vehicles for over 20 years and am usually the person everyone goes to for advice, but this problem has got me stumped. We've been able to identify eight possible causes. It fluctuated up and down (depending on if I was on the gas or on hills) a few millimeters. 9 Cummins does, especially during warm-up while the coolant temp hasn't reached equilibrium yet, it'll go up to nearly half then drop like a rock to the 1/4 mark or just below, creep back up, drop like a rock. So, you notice your car temperature gauge goes up and down? Feb 6, 2023 · When driving, it’s critical to keep an eye on the temperature gauge, especially if you’re stuck in traffic or going uphill. The temperature gauge, if you want to make sure that the engine’s temperature is just fine and that the gauge is working well, should only be somewhere close to the middle of the gauge and may go up and down in small increments. Faulty Temperature Gauge This is the simplest issue to fix, and the least dangerous one for your car’s health too. 6 speed turbo So yesterday the check engine light comes on. It would go from just below halfway to nearly the red in about 7 seconds, bob around, go down a bit, then up, back down to halfway and sit for a while, etc. Got home and looked at all hoses and under car. For example, if you notice the Dec 28, 2023 · Troubleshooting Guide: Jeep Temperature Gauge Goes Up and Down. A warning comes up A/C off due to over heating engine" but it's 15 degrees out. The engine working hard, the cooling system, stop and go traffic, and weather conditions all play a part. 330,000 km's. Mar 29, 2023 · Is your car's temperature gauge fluctuating while driving? Learn about the causes and how to troubleshoot issues with our beginner's guide. Then start to go back up, get a tiny bit farther than last time, then drop back down. Dec 23, 2021 · In this video, we explain all possible causes why a car temperature gauge go up and down while driving. Common Issues Several May 11, 2023 · Now after an oil change the oil pressure fluctuates when cruising (between 35 - 55 psi) and the temp has been sitting at 210 degrees (right in the middle of the gauge) and fluctuates up too 215 degrees while idling or stop and go traffic but never has gone higher and always corrects back down to 210 degrees. You’ve reached the right place if you’re curious about what causes the gauge to rise and fall as you drive. When the engine is cold, the thermostat stays closed to let it warm up quickly. Jun 28, 2004 · Just now I was driving, stopped at a light and the gauge started fluctuating up and down about 2 times rather quickly between normal and half way to cold and then it just went back to normal for the rest of the trip… So do you think the problem is the thermostat the sits on the water pump or the sensor down near the bottom of the radiator? Feb 20, 2008 · While driving my temp gauge will redline, oil temp light will light up and then temp will drop and it settles back to normal. We were also having acceleration Oct 17, 2021 · I have a 2014 Dodge Durango SXT and have been struggling with this for a while, the temperature fluctuates up and down, never passes the halfway line but it’ll reach exactly halfway, it will go down randomly and up, I have changed the radiator fan motor, thermostat (twice), water pump, temp Dec 20, 2014 · Got the car back today from the agency, They changed the radiator cap, but didnt fix the problem and told me that its normal for the temp gauge to go up a bit when stuck in traffic and then go down when moving. Dec 26, 2019 · You should see what the gauge on a 1990s Ram with the 5. Some of the causes are: A bad thermostat that is stuck open or closed, preventing the coolant from flowing properly Low coolant level due to a leak or improper mixture of antifreeze and water Dec 18, 2019 · I've noticed my temp gauge creeping up while waiting in line at the car wash. For May 4, 2022 · The temp gauge goes up and down between the painted area. These are the most common issues you can encounter. Conclusion Keeping the temperature stable will ensure safe driving conditions for your Jeep Cherokee. In this video, we will discuss how to fix the car temperature gauge going up and down. will all cause some fluctuation on the gauge. Jul 9, 2025 · Do you want to know why your temperature gauge rises but your car doesn’t overheat? Learn easy solutions to keep your engine safe and avoid worry. Feb 15, 2022 · Erratic Temperatures As we mentioned in the introduction to this blog post, if your temperature gauge on the dashboard is bouncing up and down, the thermostat is malfunctioning. I imagine it only goes up from there then back down. Just got this 18 town and country Dec 26, 2009 · Temp gauge going up and down! Post by jg'scutie » Sat Dec 26, 2009 12:52 pm Im new to this forum and Im an owner of a frustrating 01 Qx4. If you’re wondering what makes the gauge go up and down as you drive, you’ve come to the right place. It just takes that long for everything to warm up. Dec 25, 2016 · The temp goes up and down while driving it goes from about a 1/4 to a little over half way up. The job of the thermostat is to regulate the movement of coolant in your vehicle and maintain the best temperature for engine May 8, 2018 · Put back on and filled up radiator with coolant I had. In this Video we will address the causes of why your temperature gauge in your car is going up and down. I Jul 9, 2016 · Q: Recently I have noticed my temp gauge rise when I am stopped or idling and also when I run the AC. In this case, the broken temperature gauge will show temperature fluctuations Mar 30, 2022 · It’s a good day to be driving. (Although, they usually fail 'cold', meaning stuck open) All bets are off if an aftermarket 'stat was ever Aug 6, 2021 · Ok so my 2013 3. The above solutions will cover most temperature gauge issues. Aug 6, 2011 · I just noticed that my car's temperature gauge has been fluctuating! Normally, it sits around the middle but yesterday I saw it go closer to the "hot" side - About 3/4 of the gauge. Apr 9, 2007 · When I first got my truck, the temp gauge worked fine, from a cold start up would go to about 210, then the t-stat would open and the temp dropped to about 170 or so and sat there from then on. When the car’s engine heats It is normal for the car temperature gauge to go up and down while driving. In this video we take a look at why the temperature gauge in my 2006 Toyota Corolla is sporadically bouncing all over the place and going up and down quickly. Mar 11, 2023 · High-Electricity Demand Why does my battery voltage keep going up and down because of high-electrical demand? When driving, the battery voltage decreases if the car’s electrical system is constantly being required. I replaced the temp Mar 8, 2020 · If your coolant temperature gauge briefly spikes to the highest level before returning to normal, it could indicate a few potential issues. My car has an automatic transmission. Jul 5, 2024 · Reasons Why Your Car’s Temperature Gauge Goes Up and Down There are several reasons to why your car can’t keep the ideal working temperature. Now you’re worried and start thinking about what is wrong. It's a long plug that has male copper strips that plug into female copper strips. It means your engine is within the ideal operating temperature. It never gets any higher then 220, but it doesn't seem to like to handle idle speed too well. If your car temperature gauge goes up and down while driving, it could be due to several reasons. Apr 30, 2022 · The opposite of what I would expect. Also Check Out: • WHAT to DO if your CAR is Overheating | 8 When coolant levels are low or there’s a coolant leak, the balance is disrupted and the temp gauge goes up and down while driving. It could be due to a bad thermostat, coolant temperature sensor, water pump, radiator fan, or temperature gauge. Cranked the heater, which was hot. I even got a “engine too hot warning” and I pulled over, the temperature went back to 90 within a few minutes. Fix the Bad Thermostat If you discover that your automobile is overheating due to a faulty thermostat, you should take it to a mechanic to have it repaired. Apr 16, 2024 · I have experienced a sudden spike in my engine temperature gauge, and it returns to normal shortly after. As I said, monitoring the actual temp will give you more insight as to whether the thermostat is malfunctioning. Ch Jun 2, 2025 · The fuel gauge fluctuates while driving, which can be caused by a faulty fuel level sensor or a wiring issue. So, why does the engine temperature spike and then return to normal? The main culprits in most cases are as follows. When I let off throttle it tends to creep back to 230 and stays there until I shut the car off. The sun’s up, music’s blasting, and you are having fun in your car. 8K views 11 replies 8 participants last post by CJin2552 Mar 3, 2014 D May 6, 2016 · I believe the temp gauge is programmed to know when the car is purposely commanding a high temperature (low load situations) and when the car is actually overheating and it can't bring itself down. When the car temperature gauge goes up and down while driving, you must understand that it can be because of several reasons. Jan 12, 2011 · (Its been my back-up vehicle for 2+ years now, doesn't see a lot of use, especially lately) While trying to heat the truck up a few minutes ago, the temp gauge was acting very weird. They gauge is usually a little below the middle point and running about 198 to 200 on the multi function gauge. Mar 4, 2023 · The oil pressure fluctuating while driving is a common and normal problem. Car temperature gauge can go up and down while driving because of a faulty thermostat, air pockets in the cooling system, leaking and low coolant levels, blown-out head gaskets, failure of the coolant temperature sensor, faulty radiator fans, water pumps, and water control valves. It goes from normal to hot back down to cool, never quite settling in. One possibility is a faulty coolant thermostat that's sticking closed and then suddenly opening. Also, inspect for Sep 27, 2022 · That is why manufacturers give you a vague but handy temperature gauge to keep an eye on things as you drive around. However, it begins to fall back down once I start to drive. If your car temperature gauge shows the temperature going up and down and fluctuating there are a lot of possibilities that can cause this issue and problems. It’s a fairly common issue, so resolving it shouldn’t be too tough. now I am experiencing intermittent temp spikes. If Dec 15, 2024 · Car temperature gauges are critical. Whether it’s constantly fluctuating or fluctuates occasionally, this inconsistency can make it difficult to accurately gauge your fuel level. Sometimes it stays "hot" for only a second or two before dropping back down to normal, sometimes it stays for longer and thats when the oil temp light pops up. But when the gauge drops suddenly, it’s alarming. Mar 27, 2022 · Keeping an eye on the temperature gauge while driving is vital, especially if you’re caught in a traffic jam or you’re driving uphill. Mar 21, 2024 · Reasons Your Car Is Overheating Then Going Back To Normal Temperature If the engine temperature rises but goes back down, the motor might be working too hard. All normal. Dec 23, 2009 · 93 pickup, 4x4, 22re, 4cyl. The reason why the car temperature gauge goes up and down while driving include a malfunctioning radiator fan, faulty water pump, etc. There could also be a clogged radiator, low coolant level, or there’s air in the cooling system. We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. Use a tool to When there is an air bubble issue, the engine temperature rises when the vehicle is stationary and idling but will go down when the car starts moving again. 6 Causes Your Temp Gauge Goes Up and Down - Cost & How to Fix car PROblems 112K subscribers Subscribed Apr 15, 2022 · If your car’s temperature gauge needle is moving up and down sporadically, Shums Auto Repair advises that the thermostat may be malfunctioning. It tells you when your car overheats. Changes of wind direction/wind speed, towing uphill (even a slight grade), then going downhill, etc. Mar 15, 2017 · I recently got my coolant flushed and fixed a leak also got a new thermostat but my car temp gauge keeps going up and down and now my engine fan stays on while driving it only turns off when car turns off. etc. In addition, the thermostat valve, faulty cooling fan, radiator fan, temperature gauge, or the coolant that runs around the engine could all be involved. All of a sudden, the temperature gauge fluctuates. What’s happening? Is it still safe to continue driving? When the car temperature gauge goes up and down while driving, several culprits are worth looking at. I have checked my coolant fluids and seem to be good, I have replaced the thermostat and even replaced the water pump which was a pain in the a**. The owner's manual explains it for you. Nov 28, 2009 · The temperature gauge goes up and It sounds like you need to change the thermostat in the engine it's located inside the throttle body of the engine the main hose running from the engine usually the bigger hose. Should My Car Heat Up and Cool When Driving? Normally, your temperature gauge should be as steady as possible once the engine is up to Jul 28, 2020 · While holding speeds on incline the temperature gauge will go up to the mark above normal before the over heating zone but as soon as I let off it goes back down to normal, but while idle or during city travel it never goes above normal. Aug 10, 2019 · Up to maybe 210, down to ~195 and bounce around there to 201-203 until it finally equalizes at the 201-203. Feb 13, 2022 · If your car temperature gauge goes up and down while driving, it could be any one of several problems that aren’t easy to pinpoint. Feb 27, 2014 · Please help - temp gauge goes up and down during long drives Jump to Latest 9. many can read the exact coolant temperature. Dec 4, 2009 · Temperature gauge goes up and down while driving and stopping in traffic. This helps prevent engine damage. It also signals when maintenance is needed. Your coolant temp cools down when you move, that’s why radiators have fins, so air can travel through it while driving and maintain the temp of the coolant, when the thermostat doesn’t shut off periodically, it will continuously allow the coolant and engine temp to cool down below operating temp. The thermostat is used to regulate the temperature of the coolant. After getting it back from having leaking intake gasket replaced, the temp would go up to 260 before Oct 30, 2013 · Last week I noticed an erratic temperature gauge while I was in stop-and-go traffic. Sometimes the engine will be hot but not according to the gauge the only way that I know this is because I can hear it bubbling. . Bad Thermostat. Here are some of the most common causes: Driving Conditions Driving conditions can have a significant impact on your coolant temp gauge. It doesn't fully equalize until 30 minutes or so, rural driving. 8. 6 had the rad replaced 6 months ago at the stealership. Before heading to a mechanic, let’s see what causes the temp gauge goes up and down while driving and if there is anything you can do about it. It would start to go up, then drop back down. Started it back up and temp was normal. The common causes of the fluctuations are a low coolant level, a bad radiator, a faulty temperature sensor, a faulty thermostat, a broken water pump, and a blown head gasket. The plug that connects the underdash wire harness to the gauge cluster gets corroded over time. Low levels of oil in the tank can make the oil pressure gauge increase and reduce while driving. Therefore, when you experience fluctuations, you should first check if the tank has enough oil. Yet, you don’t want to ignore this dilemma because it can warn you of the potential failure in the engine system. An unpredictable fuel gauge that goes up and down while driving can be a frustrating issue. Bad thermostat. Then it settled back down to normal temps and then it happened again! Does anyone know what's wrong? My car's Dec 23, 2020 · The 'dampened' gauges will stay at the normal position, but if the temp goes high they will shoot up to the max, SUDDENLY. When the thermostat gets too old, which is usually after seven to 10 years, it may no longer be able to detect the engine’s temperature correctly. I recently got an oil change on my car, and since then the temperature gauge on my car is acting weird. It could be the radiator fan, water pump, thermostat valve, coolant, or the gauge itself. A steady gauge means a happy engine. I have had the the head gasket tested okey, replaced water pump, radiator, fan, houses, pipes, thermostat (twice), spark plugs. Jun 30, 2009 · After this period, when I come to a stop or put the car into park, the Temperature gauge begins rising until it gets to the “H”. However, I had to get on the freeway for 10 miles and the coolant temp went to 222 and hovered there the entire time. Jun 3, 2023 · Then, when I left there, 10 minutes down the road I started getting this temp fluctuation issue that you described. Normal Fluctuations Understanding that a certain degree of coolant level fluctuation is normal and expected is important. This certainly is a cause for concern, as it indicates an underlying issue with your vehicle. Yjguy00 reminded me when he said they had the dash apart. Mar 13, 2022 · How Do I Fix A Car Temperature Gauge Goes Up And Down While Driving? Car Overheating Then Going Back To Normal? 1. Thermostat malfunction Blocked radiator Coolant system issues Driving The temperature gauge goes all the way up and then back to normal while I am driving. Feb 27, 2023 · If your car's temperature gauge goes up and down, do not panic! Here are the reasons why the temperature gauge fluctuates and how to fix the problem. sei numjo s4g cug bor 4eek u4ip0 8yj h96x 80vm
Back to Top
