Severity: Fix within days. Drive with caution and watch for new symptoms.
The coolant temperature sensor is reporting a temperature far hotter than the engine should be, which usually means a short in its wiring.
Check the coolant level, inspect the wiring for shorts, and replace the sensor if the reading stays pegged hot.
The gauge may read hot even when the engine is cold. Verify the real temperature before driving far.
You can drive short distances carefully; watch for worsening symptoms. The gauge may read hot even when the engine is cold. Verify the real temperature before driving far.
The most common causes are: Shorted sensor wiring; Failed coolant temperature sensor; Damaged connector; Low coolant level. A scan tool and a visual check of the parts above is where a technician starts.
Check the coolant level, inspect the wiring for shorts, and replace the sensor if the reading stays pegged hot.
