What component's temperature does the water temperature gauge indicate?
2 Answers
The water temperature gauge is used to indicate the temperature of the engine coolant. The unit of measurement on the water temperature gauge is Celsius. When starting the engine, the water temperature gauge should indicate no less than 50°C; during normal vehicle operation, the normal reading on the water temperature gauge should be between 70°C and 90°C. Excessive water temperature can have the following impacts on the engine: 1. The expansion of engine components will reduce the clearance between parts, increasing engine wear. 2. It will lower the viscosity of the engine oil, leading to increased wear on various components and reduced engine lifespan. 3. Damage to the cylinder head gasket may cause cross-flow between the water, oil, and air passages on the gasket, allowing oil to enter the radiator and water to enter the engine oil.
The temperature gauge is an essential reference for me while driving, as it directly indicates the temperature of the engine coolant. The coolant circulates between the engine and the radiator to dissipate heat, ensuring the engine doesn't overheat and get damaged. I've driven long distances multiple times, and whenever the temperature gauge needle shoots up to the red zone, it signals a problem with the cooling system—like a fan failure or a stuck thermostat. In such cases, I must pull over immediately to let the engine cool down, or else the cylinder head could warp and get damaged. Normally, the needle should stay steadily in the middle green zone. It tends to rise during summer when the AC is on full blast or in heavy traffic. I recommend checking the coolant level and color weekly to ensure it's normal. Mixing different types of antifreeze can cause sediment buildup and clogging. Cleaning the radiator fins during seasonal changes can help prevent issues. Regular maintenance not only saves money on repairs but also ensures peace of mind during trips.
