What Engine Temperature Should My Car Be?

Normal Engine Temperature Range

The normal operating temperature range for most cars is between 195 and 220 degrees Fahrenheit (90 to 104 degrees Celsius). However, this can vary slightly depending on the make and model of your car. You can find the specific normal operating temperature range for your car in your owner’s manual.

What Happens If My Engine Temperature Is Too High?

If your engine temperature is too high, it can cause a number of problems, including:

Engine overheating
Blown head gasket
Warped cylinder head
Seized engine

What Happens If My Engine Temperature Is Too Low?

If your engine temperature is too low, it can also cause a number of problems, including:

Poor fuel economy
Increased emissions
Sludge buildup in the engine

How to Monitor Your Engine Temperature

There are a few different ways to monitor your engine temperature:

Temperature gauge: Most cars have a temperature gauge on the dashboard that indicates the engine temperature.
OBD-II scanner: You can also use an OBD-II scanner to monitor your engine temperature. OBD-II scanners are available at most auto parts stores.
Infrared thermometer: You can also use an infrared thermometer to measure the temperature of your engine. Infrared thermometers are available at most hardware stores.

What to Do If Your Engine Temperature Is Too High

If your engine temperature is too high, you should take the following steps:

Pull over to a safe location and turn off the engine.
Let the engine cool down for a few minutes.
Check the coolant level and add coolant if necessary.
Inspect the hoses and belts for any leaks or damage.
If you can’t find any obvious problems, you should have your car towed to a mechanic for further diagnosis.

What to Do If Your Engine Temperature Is Too Low

If your engine temperature is too low, you should take the following steps:

Check the thermostat and replace it if necessary.
Check the coolant level and add coolant if necessary.
Inspect the hoses and belts for any leaks or damage.
If you can’t find any obvious problems, you should have your car towed to a mechanic for further diagnosis.

Conclusion

Monitoring your engine temperature is an important part of maintaining your car. By knowing what the normal operating temperature range is for your car and what to do if your engine temperature is too high or too low, you can help prevent serious engine problems.