Defective temperature sensor

The temperature sensor, usually housed inside the thermostat sends the temperature of the coolant to the temperature gauge and, in some vehicles, the computer. If it is defective, the wrong temperature will be sent to the gauge.

Table of Contents

• 1. Symptoms
  • 1.1 Temperature Gauge Fluctuates Randomly
  • 1.2 Temperature Gauge Doesn't Move

Symptoms

Temperature Gauge Fluctuates Randomly

A defective temperature sensor may send a signal that causes the temperature gauge to rise and fall at random.

Temperature Gauge Doesn't Move

If the gauge isn't moving, the sensor may not be sending the signal. This can be troublesome as the driver may not be warn of engine overheating until it's too late.