What does it mean when the blue water temperature gauge lights up?
3 Answers
Water temperature gauge blue indicates that the water temperature is too low. The situation of water temperature being too low rarely occurs, and it will automatically turn off once the temperature rises. However, if you drive for a long time with the water temperature too low, the engine will not reach the normal temperature, which will lead to poor engine lubrication and cause significant wear and tear on the internal components of the engine. The reasons why the blue water temperature gauge of the car stays lit are as follows: Computer self-check function: This is the self-check function of the car computer before starting, which is normal. In the future, when starting the car, don't be in such a hurry; wait until the computer has finished checking before igniting. Not reaching working temperature: After parking for a long time, the blue light on startup means low water temperature because the normal water temperature of the radiator is between 60 to 80 degrees, and the external temperature of more than 30 degrees is still not enough to reach its working temperature, so its water temperature light remains on.
When I first started driving, I didn't understand why the blue light on the dashboard was on. Later, I learned that it's actually a reminder that the engine coolant temperature is too low, which usually appears after a cold start. It means the car hasn't warmed up sufficiently, and the lubricating oil hasn't circulated properly. Driving at high speeds immediately can easily cause engine wear and increase fuel consumption. I usually drive slowly at low speed for a few minutes or wait until the engine warms up and the light goes off before driving normally, especially in winter when it's more noticeable. In summer, it happens relatively less frequently. Regular maintenance is important—don't always stop after short trips; let the engine fully warm up. If the blue light stays on constantly, it might indicate a problem with the coolant temperature sensor or insufficient antifreeze, so it's best to visit a repair shop to ensure safe driving.
I often discuss such minor issues in car maintenance groups. The blue coolant temperature indicator light indicates that the engine coolant temperature has not reached the optimal level, typically displaying below 60°C. It serves as a reminder to warm up the engine during cold starts to avoid damage from high-RPM driving. I recommend that drivers observe this light every time they start the car and wait for it to turn off before driving normally, which usually takes about one or two minutes. Long-term neglect of this warning may lead to increased fuel consumption or reduced engine lifespan. Additionally, it's advisable to check the antifreeze condition and replace it periodically to prevent freezing issues. Simply put, this is the car's thoughtful reminder – avoid impatiently stepping on the accelerator to boost speed, as it may harm performance.
