temperature gauge will stay a little lower than half way but then sometimes

[Sallback]

When I am driving the temperature gauge will stay a little lower than half way but then sometimes it will jump up to about 3/4 then slowly go back down to the normal temp. Is this something to do with the thermostat or temp sensor? Also while I am driving sometimes I will smell like oil for 10-20 seconds and then it just goes away. Seems to happen more often when I am in gear going down hill without giving it any throttle but they may just be some coincidence. Any ideas on these issues? I searched them but wasn't successful..

 

[rsross314]

It may be the sensor i had a faulty connection and it would jump up and down like that for no reason. How high does it go?

 

[Boostjunki84]

My talon had similar symptoms and it ended up being the thermostat. I would also try checking the sensor like rsross314 said; and be sure to check your coolant level and system for leaks.

 

[Sallback]

Thanks, I should replace the thermostat just because and is the oil smell affiliated with this? the motor cant have more that 70k miles on since i put it in my car last year with only 52k miles.

 

[dr1665]

Rapid temp fluctuations like that are a telltale sign of low coolant level. Might as well replace the thermostat while you're at it. Certainly can't hurt anything.

 

[BigRand]

Don't forget to flush the system while your at it.

 

[dr1665]

Don't forget to flush the system while your at it.

And use the right mix of coolant/anti-freeze and water while you're at it.

 

[Blitzeclips]

And use the right mix of coolant/anti-freeze and water while you're at it.

And throw some Water Wetter in there too. While you're at it...

 

[4UH8ERS]

Also make sure your temp sender has a good connection. The little sensor on the t-stat housing. If its failing or corroded the temp will be all over the place.

For the low coolant recomendation, just check the overflow bottle and just add from there if necessary.

 

[dr1665]

Also make sure your temp sender has a good connection.

While you're at it.