1989 Toyota Tercel Temperature gauge reading is increasing

Tiny
ZAKTERCEL
  • MEMBER
  • 1989 TOYOTA TERCEL
  • 1.5L
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • MANUAL
  • 225,000 MILES
I noticed today that the temperature gauge was reading higher than usual. Around the 10 o'clock level rather than around 8 o'clock, where the needle usually resides. When I had this problem before, about 8 years ago, the fan had malfunctioned. I did not hear the fan running today. I want to address this before it overheats and, looking in the manual, it gives some tests for the fan. One involves the temperature sensor switch. Does anyone have any ideas on how to locate the temperature sensor switch? Also, any other thoughts on diagnosing/fixing the problem?

Thanks!
Friday, September 18th, 2015 AT 10:11 PM

3 Replies

Tiny
HMAC300
  • MECHANIC
  • 48,601 POSTS
Check fuse under hood and relay switch is at rear of engine with grn/red wire. See pic
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Saturday, September 19th, 2015 AT 6:15 AM
Tiny
ZAKTERCEL
  • MEMBER
  • 9 POSTS
Hey Hmac -

thanks for the quick reply! I looked up the fan motor relay and the manual says to check continuity between terminals 1 and 2 and also 3 and 4. Is that what you are suggesting?

And the relay switch you are referring to is the temperature switch?

Thanks again!
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Saturday, September 19th, 2015 AT 10:02 AM
Tiny
HMAC300
  • MECHANIC
  • 48,601 POSTS
Can do that or go to our how to repair site and look under electrical how to check a relay tells you there
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Saturday, September 19th, 2015 AT 10:12 AM

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