How Accurate are Car Thermometers?

The car thermometer should be accurate within a few degrees, if we are discussing the outside temperature gauge.  If we are discussing the thermostat that tells you if the engine is overheating, let’s hope it is accurate. The reading reflects whether many parts, including the oxygen sensor, are doing their jobs.  Here’s what you need to know about each one.

How Accurate is the Car Thermometer in Terms of Climate?

Most sensors are located near the front bumper. This keeps them far enough away from the engine to keep its heat from being a factor in determining the outside temperature.  If the sun is beating down on the front bumper, then the temperature may appear higher than the air feels to you.  

On the other hand, the temperature could seem cooler than it actually feels.  A hot day feels even hotter due to the amount of concrete and asphalt in the area where you are parked or driving.  An Arizona motorist noted that her interior temperature spiked at 144 degrees when she was parked while the outdoor temperature registered only 110 degrees. This is one reason that it is fatal to leave a child or pet in a parked car, especially in Arizona.

Generally the temperature gauge doesn’t break unless it is an older car.  If your temperature gauge regularly is way off the actual outdoor temperature, our certified auto repair mechanics can take a look to see what is causing the problem. Earnhardt Lexus offers a Dare to Compare guarantee.

What Does your Engine Temperature Gauge Mean?

Your engine temperature gauge is designed to tell you how hot the engine is while you are driving.  Every time you drive you should take a mental note of how long it takes it to get to the middle.  If it happens fast, the car is in danger of overheating.  If it goes into the red, that’s a sign that your car is running too hot. As you can see, your car may not show signs of overheating, but it does try to warn you before the situation gets too bad.

A properly functioning gauge can warn you if coolant is running low, a dangerous thing in Arizona summers. It can signal a damaged water pump, a clogged radiator or an overworked engine. The oxygen sensor or other engine parts may be malfunctioning.  However, it can also mean that the thermostat is broken and needs repair.

When your gauge needle moves too close to red or into the red, you need to pay attention. Chances are you need to pay a visit to the Earnhardt Lexus service department.  This is definitely a case where acting quickly can save you big money on your car repair.  Heat is a very destructive force, and, if you pay attention to the signs, you can get help to stop it before the extreme heat damages your engine.

Check out our other auto repair articles and be in touch if you need certified auto repair. Schedule an appointment for repair or maintenance. 

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