Can You Still Drive If the Car's Water Temperature Gauge Stops Moving?
2 Answers
If the water temperature gauge stops moving, the car can still run for a short period, but prolonged driving in this condition may damage the vehicle. Here are several reasons why a car's water temperature gauge may indicate overheating: 1. Insufficient Coolant: Leakage or reduction of coolant can cause the water temperature to rise. In such cases, check for any signs of coolant leakage. If found, repair the leaking component as soon as possible; if not, promptly add the appropriate coolant. 2. Radiator Fan Malfunction: When the vehicle is running at high speeds, the generated heat cannot be effectively transferred to the antifreeze, affecting heat dissipation and causing the antifreeze temperature to rise. In such situations, reduce the speed while driving and check if the fan is malfunctioning. If it is, repair it as soon as possible.
If the temperature gauge isn't moving, I absolutely don't recommend continuing to drive. Anyone with over 20 years of driving experience knows this little thing is the intelligence officer for engine health; if it's not moving, it could mean the sensor is dead, the wiring is broken, or worse, the engine is already overheating and boiling, and you don't even know it. Continuing to drive could lead to the engine overheating and being ruined, with repair costs easily exceeding ten thousand yuan. I've learned this the hard way: a few years ago on a long-distance trip, the temperature gauge got stuck and I thought it was fine, but halfway through the journey, the engine started smoking, and towing plus repairs cost me over ten thousand. Safety comes first—it's most important to stop immediately and check if the coolant level is low or if there's a leak. But don't try to fix it yourself; finding a nearby professional shop or calling for roadside assistance is the most reliable. Make it a habit to regularly check the antifreeze and system seals during routine maintenance to prevent such sudden troubles.