does this water temp reading at idle (like waiting at a drive thru) mean its bad or is it normal or a sign of something getting ready to go bad. but once i get on the road moving the temp goes back to middle at 195* normal sitting range.
~1996 Cavalier LS 2.4L (auto)
all 3 of my cavaliers have done that in traffic or so on a hot/warm day then goes back down when u get going constant again.
"A goal without a plan is just a wish"
That's just about where mine gets (little bit higher...) before the fan kicks on, drops back down to 195 after getting going.
Thats my 01 cavalier 2.2L reads on temp as well. Its normal.
Nothing to worry about until you get into the red. 265*F is when bad things start to happen.
220*F is actually where engines run most efficient, but over 200*F is also where conventional oil starts to break down faster.
And don't expect a factory gauge to be anywhere near accurate. It's an appearance item. Simply for show. The red/orange area is about the only area that is accurate enough to tell you bad things are about to happen.
***Brand New In the Box Pioneer GM-D8500M For Sale***
My 2 $.01 for those with a 2003 cavalier. Mine runs exactly as above, but I bought it used about 9 months ago, and it used to stay right below
mid-line, but now goes above mid-line as shown above. However, I have done nothing to the cooling system except add more distilled water to it, as it came with no coolant, and water seems to be working well. I need to flush it, and change the thermostat, hoses, etc, and add the correct mixture of coolant/water as I don't want the system rusting out on me. Looks good so far, fairly clear water, etc. Had so many expenses lately, $300 brakes TOL EBC done by myself, and it needs a few other things, but cooling system is at the top of the list for my next to do when I have the money. lol
Funny thing is my 00 Vert Z24 with the LD9 runs at that normally. Even after the fan kicks on, and at constant speeds with is being 50* outside. My girls LD9 in her 96 runs at mid, and even my previous 02 with the Eco ran in the middle. But she doesnt go any higher then that. So I would say its safe, especially since your not in the red (or orange in this matter)
