What is the reason for the intermittent illumination of the temperature gauge?
3 Answers
The reason for the intermittent illumination of the temperature gauge is a lack of coolant. A slightly low coolant level can trigger temporary warnings. Prolonged high temperatures can reduce the lubrication effectiveness of the engine oil, leading to wear and tear of internal engine components. If the red light comes on, do not continue driving. When the temperature warning light illuminates, you should stop the vehicle and check—note that you should stop but not turn off the engine. Park the vehicle in a safe area and keep the engine running at idle speed to allow heat dissipation by opening the hood. If you see steam rising from the hood, observe first and avoid opening it hastily to prevent burns. After parking, first check if the coolant level in the auxiliary tank is too low. If the coolant level is below the 'min' line, add coolant. If coolant is not available, you can temporarily use mineral water as a substitute, but remember to replace it with new coolant afterward.
As someone who has worked in the automotive repair field for years, I've encountered many cases where the temperature gauge flickers on and off. The most common cause is poor contact or a loose coolant temperature sensor, which is located near the engine block – prolonged vibration and high temperatures make it prone to failure. Additionally, aging or corroded wiring connected to the sensor can cause intermittent signals, much like fluctuating mobile phone reception. Faulty internal components in the gauge itself are less likely but still possible. If left unrepaired, it may mislead drivers into ignoring engine overheating, potentially damaging core engine components and causing repair costs to skyrocket. My advice is to pull over immediately upon noticing this issue, check if the coolant level is normal, and visit a professional repair shop for diagnosis with proper tools if needed. Regular engine bay cleaning can prevent many such minor issues.
Last time, the temperature gauge in my own car kept flickering, which really freaked me out. After consulting a mechanic friend, I learned that it was mainly due to the temperature sensor's plug not being securely connected or the wires being corroded and disconnected. I tried checking it myself and found that the engine wiring harness was a bit loose. Tightening it with small pliers fixed the issue. However, sometimes the sensor itself is faulty and needs to be replaced. I think it's crucial to always pay attention to changes on the dashboard while driving and not delay addressing them, as significant engine temperature fluctuations can lead to cylinder damage. It's also a good idea to check these wiring connections during regular maintenance for peace of mind and safety.
