Dash Warning Lights: Coolant Temperature Light

Most vehicles are equipped with a coolant temperature gauge or dash warning light. The warning light may be labeled “coolant,” “hot,” or “temperature.” If the coolant temperature warning light comes on during driving, this usually indicates that the coolant temperature is above a safe level, or above about 250°F (120°C). Normal coolant temperature should be about 200°F to 220°F (90°C to 105°C). If the coolant temperature light comes on during driving, the following steps should be followed to prevent possible engine damage.

1. Turn off the air conditioning and turn on the heater. The heater will help get rid of some of the heat in the cooling system.

2. Raise the engine speed in neutral or park to increase the circulation of coolant through the radiator.

3. If possible, turn the engine off and allow it to cool (this may take over an hour).

4. Do not continue driving with the coolant temperature light on (or the gauge reading in the red warning section or above 260°F) or serious engine damage may result.

If the engine does not feel or smell hot, it is possible that the problem is a faulty coolant temperature sensor or gauge.