2000 Chevrolet Cavalier Temp Gauge

2000 CHEVROLET CAVALIER
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SENTRAMAN
  • MEMBER
  • 13 POSTS
Hi

My engine temperature gauge is around 100 deg when i'm stuck in the traffic for a long time but when i'm on open road it's just below 90. I'm thinking my thermostat opens at 98 deg, so i want to put one that has lower temperature rating. If i do this will it affect the performance of the car or in other words is this a safe to do. Also i checked the level of my antifreeze it seems to be fine. Thanks for the help in advance.
May 3, 2006 at 8:28 AM
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LOSONE
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 1,616 POSTS
Your engine is designed to run about 100C or 212 F. Do not change the T-stat your engine performance and emissions will drop. A T-stat controls the minimum operating temperature of an engine.
May 3, 2006 at 8:37 AM
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Suggested Repair

Do not install a lower-temperature thermostat. The engine is designed to run about 100°C (212°F); a cooler thermostat can reduce performance and emissions. The thermostat only controls minimum operating temperature, and the reported readings are normal.

Conversation Summary

The owner of a 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier reports a temperature gauge around 100 degrees in traffic and just below 90 on the open road, and asks whether a lower-temperature thermostat is safe. The expert says the engine is designed to run about 100°C (212°F) and advises against changing the thermostat because performance and emissions would drop.

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