Is it normal for the car's water temperature gauge to rise slowly in winter?
3 Answers
In winter, the temperature is relatively low, so it is normal for the car's water temperature gauge to rise more slowly. If the water temperature gauge eventually reaches the normal temperature, then there is no problem. If the water temperature gauge cannot rise to the normal temperature, then there is a fault in the cooling system. Below is an introduction to the relevant knowledge about water-cooled engines: 1. Small circulation: When the engine is just started, the engine temperature is relatively low, and the coolant undergoes small circulation at this time. 2. Large circulation: When the engine reaches the normal operating temperature, the coolant will undergo large circulation.
After driving for many years, it's quite common to encounter slow rising of the car's water temperature gauge in winter. This is mainly because the low temperature causes the engine to take longer to warm up. For example, where I live at minus ten degrees Celsius, the water temperature rises as slowly as a snail after starting, often taking seven or eight minutes to reach normal temperature. The thermostat delays opening the cooling cycle in cold conditions to allow the engine interior to heat up faster. The usual approach is simple: don't rush off after a cold start; let the car idle for a minute or two first, then drive slowly to speed up warming. However, it's important to note that if the water temperature still hasn't risen after 15 minutes, the thermostat might be stuck or the coolant might be too old and prone to freezing in winter. I've experienced this once before, and replacing the coolant solved the problem. Overall, it's quite normal, but for safety's sake, regular maintenance of the cooling system is advisable.
As a new driver, I was quite worried the first time I saw the temperature gauge slowly rising in winter. After checking, I found it's perfectly normal—cold weather causes the engine to cool down faster, naturally prolonging the warm-up process. For beginners like me, it's advisable to observe daily driving habits more. For instance, when starting the car below zero degrees, it may take five to six minutes for the temperature to reach the middle mark. If it's unusually slow, such as not moving at all after half an hour, there might be issues like a faulty thermostat or clogged pipes. Also, check the coolant level and top it up promptly if it's low to avoid reduced engine efficiency due to excessive cold. Don't stress too much; most of the time, patience is key, and this can even improve fuel economy. Develop the habit of driving gently after startup to ensure proper warm-up for safer operation.
