2001 Sebring Temp gauge fluctuations

I have a 2001 Sebring and often, when I am setting at a redlight, my
temp gaugue will go from about 1/2 way to 3/4 of the way to hot. When
I start going again, the gauge comes back down. I have had my car in
the shop at least 4 times to see if they can find a problem, but my
thermostat and fans work correctly and I have plenty of fluid. Has
anyone else had this problem or does anyone know what may be causing
this issue? I am afraid that I am going to be stranded on the side of
an Atlanta highway one morning or afternoon.

Thanks in advance.

 

You do not say if the gauge acted differently previously ... sure sounds to
me like the fan is not turning on automatically like it should when the
temperature sender calls for the additional airflow. You can simulate this
condition by simply letting the engine idle in your driveway or garage. See
what happens for yourself. Does the fan turn on at any point or does the
gauge simply continue to rise? What happens if you turn on your A/C? Both
fans should run with the A/C on. If the fans come on with the A/C but the
cooling fan does not run when the temperature is very hot, then it would
seem to indict the coolant temperature sender.

Bob

 

Bob, first off, thanks for your response. I did let my car idle in
the drive yesterday. It did not take long for the temp gauge to begin
moving up. At that point, it appeas that when the A/C if off, a fan
will kick on and when the A/C is on, another fan will kick on. So, it
appears the fans are working correctly.

I have taken this thing to a 4 shops and noone can find anything wrong
with my car. I just changed all the hoses going to and from the
radiator. I think that I might be blowing anti-freeze out the tail
because the level is low (I just filled the thing up less than a month
ago) and I don’t see any puddles or marks underneath the car to
indicate that the radiator is leaking.

 

Do an oil change immediately and check for antifreeze/water in the
oil. If that is happening you will hash your mains if you don't do
something
about it.

Ted