Engine Coolant Guage in the RED

[DrunknFoo]

With the AC off (gauge pointing to 7oclock), while maintaining a steady speed of 120km/h on the 404, I noticed my engine coolant gauge rising and rising out of nowhere. I immidiately pulled off to the shoulder popped open the hood and noticed an immense amount of heat spewing out however the coolant was at a decent level.

After about 30 minutes or so of just chilling while smoking n' conversing over the cell, I started up the car and the temps went back to normal and I drove around for about 15minutes or so and noticed everything seemed to be normal.

Anyone have any ideas? I'm a little concerned, but dunno if I should make much of it...

[Skarbro]

My guess is that you have a bad thermostat. It is probably sticking. Take it in to the dealer for sure. You're probably under warranty still.

A bit of advice - if the car overheats again and you have to pull over, turn off the engine, but keep the accessories on and turn the heat full blast. This will pump out the heat from the coolant much faster and help prevent damage.

[MajesticBlueNTO]

My guess is that you have a bad thermostat. It is probably sticking. Take it in to the dealer for sure. You're probably under warranty still.

A bit of advice - if the car overheats again and you have to pull over, turn off the engine, but keep the accessories on and turn the heat full blast. This will pump out the heat from the coolant much faster and help prevent damage.

this will only reduce the temp of the coolant remaining in the heater core inside the passenger compartment and not of any coolant remaining in the engine...since the engine is off, the water pump isn't circulating any coolant.

if you notice the temp gauge going up while driving, turn to full heat and full blast on the fan until you can safely pull over.

[DrunknFoo]

Everything seems to be operating normally today, but thanks for the information you two. I'll definately keep this in mind if it re-occurs and I'll definately get it checked out next time I'm in for servicing