What is the normal operating temperature for a car's coolant?
2 Answers
Car coolant temperature between 80°C to 90°C is considered normal for driving. Both excessively high or low temperatures can easily damage the engine. Low temperatures are unfavorable for engine lubrication, while high temperatures may cause engine self-ignition. During daily driving, pay attention to the coolant temperature indicator on the dashboard - if the red light comes on, do not continue driving but pull over to let the engine cool down. Engine coolant temperature should neither be too low nor too high; it needs to maintain within a specific range. The normal temperature is indicated by the central position of the gauge at 90°C. After starting the vehicle, the antifreeze temperature rises rapidly. When the pointer reaches the central position, heat exchange reaches equilibrium and the antifreeze temperature stabilizes. Generally, it's best to start driving when the temperature reaches the middle position.
I've been driving for over a decade and have some experience with coolant temperature. During normal operation, the temperature gauge needle should stay steady at the midpoint, around 90 degrees Celsius. Many newer cars don't have digital displays, so just focus on the marked central area of the dashboard. Don't worry if the needle doesn't move right after starting - it's normal for it to take 3-5 minutes to rise in winter. But if you see the needle enter the red zone or a warning light comes on, pull over and shut off the engine immediately! Last time my radiator leaked, it almost ruined the engine. Remember to check the coolant reservoir under the hood every six months - the level should stay between min and max marks. Always inspect before long trips, especially with older cars that are more prone to issues.
