How many bars on the temperature gauge are normal?
2 Answers
It is normal for the temperature gauge to show 2 to 4 bars. When the car's engine is operating normally, the water temperature is typically between 90 degrees Celsius and 105 degrees Celsius, which is the midpoint on a simplified gauge. If the car's water temperature becomes too high, it can lead to poor engine cooling. The expansion of components will reduce the clearance between parts, and on the other hand, high temperatures will lower the viscosity of engine oil, increasing wear on components. To ensure the engine operates within the normal temperature range, cars are equipped with an engine coolant temperature sensor. Usually, the temperature gauge is displayed separately on the car's dashboard, and an alarm will appear if the antifreeze temperature is too high.
After driving for so many years, I've found that the ideal temperature gauge reading is between 4 to 6 bars, depending on the vehicle model. My old car had 8 bars, and the engine ran smoothest when the temperature stabilized at 4 or 5 bars. If the weather is hot or when climbing hills with heavy load, it might rise to 6 bars, but it shouldn't exceed 7 bars, otherwise the risk becomes high. Maintaining this range ensures the cooling system works effectively and prevents engine damage from overheating. During daily driving, I make it a habit to observe the temperature changes—it warms up gradually after startup in winter, while it tends to run higher in summer. Regularly checking the coolant level and radiator fan to prevent issues beforehand is the secret to extending the vehicle's lifespan.
