What does it mean when the thermometer light on the car comes on?
2 Answers
The thermometer light on the car coming on indicates that the engine coolant temperature is too high. The reasons for this are: 1. Insufficient or leaking coolant causing the temperature to rise; 2. A malfunctioning radiator fan resulting in the vehicle running at high speeds and generating heat that cannot be dissipated in time; 3. A problem with the circulation water pump, preventing the normal operation of the water circulation on the engine's heat conduction side, leading to a failure in the engine cooling system. Precautions when the thermometer light on the car comes on: 1. It is not advisable to continue driving when the temperature light on the dashboard flashes; wait for the temperature to drop before inspecting and repairing; 2. Do not immediately turn off the engine; 3. Do not splash cold water on the engine to cool it down, as this can cause the engine block to cool suddenly and crack.
When the temperature gauge light on the car comes on, it indicates a problem with the engine cooling system, likely due to the engine overheating. The most common causes are insufficient or leaking coolant, which could result from a leaking radiator, faulty water pump, or clogged radiator. A non-functioning fan or stuck thermostat can also lead to overheating. If the light comes on, you should immediately pull over, turn off the engine, open the hood to let it cool, and then check the coolant reservoir level—top it up if it's low. Continuing to drive could cause severe engine damage, such as warped cylinder heads, which are expensive to repair. As someone who frequently helps others with car repairs, I recommend regular maintenance of the cooling system, checking fluid levels and hose conditions to prevent this issue.
