Temp gauge on HOT, upper rad. hose is warm/hot, engine is cool, HELP!

[Nicks2319]

Hey guys, thanks for even looking.

As of a few days ago, my temp gauge will rock between 3/4 to full hot, but:

- Heater blows cold/semi-warm air
- Engine seems pretty normal/cool... and when i start it up in the morning...the temp says very hot, but the engine is extremely cold
- upper radiator hose seems to be hot/warm constantly.


Is this a thermostat related problem? Im not too familiar with the setup.

Also, Im running pretty watered down coolant because of a leak.... and just a few minutes ago it seemed like it was boiling over...

Any suggestions? Thanks alot.

 

[91orangeGST]

Replace your thermostat. When my went out I heard it boiling and that fixed the problem. Also if you heater isnt blowing hot thats another sign of the thermostat sticking. Its about 6 dollars and only takes about 15min... Easy fix insted of a new engine.

 

[boosted_91_tsi]

When you put the new one in, make sure it seats all the way down in the recess. If it's not down in there you will crack the thermostat housing when you bolt it back on. If that fixes your problem but the heater still blows cool after warm up, check your heater core hoses for leaks too.

 

[Nicks2319]

Alright, thanks guys.

 

[4BangR-x]

When you swap thermostats, Its a good idea to replace with only OEM Mitsu. The random auto parts stores thermos may be cheaper, but are usually missing a hole in the thermostat. You could also drain your coolant a bit, just to avoid a mess.

 

[crazy_quick]

make sure to get the air out of the lines after installing he thermostat.

 

[playitlouddsm]

^^^^^ Just incase you didn't know what crazy_quick was talking about here you go. After replacing the thermostat and refilling the system with coolant start the car with the rad. cap off and let it run while blurping the lower rad. hose.

 

[Defiant]

Or play squeezie-squeezie with the lower hose for a half minute. DSMs don't really have an air-captivation problem.

 

[Nicks2319]

Hah, alright, thanks for all the help.

 

[fwdeclipse]

I had this same problem a couple years ago and I thought thermostat but it ended up being my water pump.So if thermostat does not do the trick your water pump is probably toasted.