Temp gauge on '91 Acura Integra: What's a safe level for it to be at?

Question

My temp gauge was fluctuating all over the place last week, then was up past the red line for 2 days with the engine fan coming on when I turned the car off. I added coolant, which helped only slightly. I took it into the shop and was told I needed a new radiator, so they replaced it. I am concerned though because the needle on the temp gauge is now at 1/3, almost 1/2 of the way of the way up. I have had the car for 3 years and the needle has always been between the 1/4 to 1/3 mark, but I'm wondering if this is too high, esp. given that it now has the new radiator. What is an acceptable, safe range for the temp gauge to be in, and at what point should I be concerned?

Les · Accepted Answer

The original thermostat is supposed to keep the engine operating at 180 degrees and ergonomically, this should put the temperature right about in the middle of the gauge or slightly less.

However, there are 195 degree replacement thermostats that work in this car too... see the links below from autozone and you will find the thermostat a cheap part that is easily replaced by yourself with simple tools, i.e. a ratchet wrench, 4" extension, and probably 12mm or 14mm socket.

The thermostat costs only $9.99
and the thermostat gasket costs only $3.99

If they replaced the thermostat with a 195 degree replacement then the guage would read higher than normal but still be perfectly alright for the car.  A colder climate would make me choose the 195 degree thermostat just so I would have a higher temp heat in the pasenger compartment!

Engines do not like to run cold nor do they like to run hot... maintaining either 180 or 195 degrees operates the engine within it's design criteria.  The manufacturer outfitted the car with a 180 degree thermostat and that is what I recommend you put in.

bob c · Answer

The thermostat controls the temperature of the water in the motor. You can ask any automotive parts store and they can easily tell you. It is possible the thermostat is faulty, and may not be the recommended temperature for your auto. Ask the shop that replaced the radiator if they replaced it and find out if it was the correct one. If it is the right one, then no worries. Good luck!

dreamer86 · Answer

1/2 is actually right. That is what my integra shows. I'm even thinking they might have replaced your thermostat because when mine went out the car would mostly stay in 1/4 level.

Gear M · Answer

1/2 way is reasonable.
For your peace of mind ask the technician who replaced the radiator to have a quick check on the cooling system.

Anonymous · Answer

once you swap the most important in the on position do you listen a mild humming sound. you could pick to examine and note in the journey that your gasoline pump is clogged. (it will be placed below the back seats) and examine the gasoline clear out to verify if thats dirty. if that ddoesnt verify your situation have a glance at your coil in the distributor cap a line could have got here free

kelly_f_1999 · Answer

wel two days in the red when five minute in red was to long to drive it  should be more concerned about your car if you was you would have stop once it got hot the first time an dnot drove it any more but to nearest shop every car is differant but lower the needle the better if its pass half way stop an d check

Azn Street Racer · Answer

half way or less fine

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Temp gauge on '91 Acura Integra: What's a safe level for it to be at?

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