Engine temperature drops rapidly/slow warm up

Tiny
JAY_SANCHEZZ15
  • MEMBER
  • 1997 TOYOTA CAMRY
  • 3.0L
  • V6
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 158,000 MILES
Hello,

I recently acquired this vehicle and noticed the engine temperature gauge would drop on highway speeds and not reach operating temperature.
I have experience this issue prior so I took it into a shop for them to replace the thermostat. I was correct as the mechanic claimed it was opening early. They claimed they would use a quality thermostat as a replacement.

After the repair, the vehicle will now reach and maintain operating temperature and blow hot air. Great!

However, as it is getting colder I am noticing that the vehicle takes quite a while to reach operating temperature compared to a more modern vehicles.
My initial assumption is that the V6 simply takes longer due to the material used in the engine and its size.

Another issue I notice is that when the vehicle is at operating temperature I will go into a store for maybe 30 minutes and come back to the vehicle with the temperature gauge on C - cold, while my girlfriend's 2008 Saturn Aura V6 operating temperature stays in between operating temperature and cold (still warm).
Minnesota weather is currently around 30-40* F.

What causes my car to warm up slowly, even after a thermostat replacement?
Why does the car's operating temperature drop like a stone after such a short time being shut off?
Would a coolant flush help this situation?
Thursday, November 21st, 2019 AT 12:27 PM

3 Replies

Tiny
ASEMASTER6371
  • MECHANIC
  • 52,797 POSTS
Good afternoon,

Are you having any other issues with the cooling system?

There really is no issue here at all. The car cools down quickly which is good. I do not understand why you are concerned about this at all.

Your girlfriend's car stays hot due to the engine difference. It does not mean your car should be the same way.

I think you are good at all levels.

Roy
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Thursday, November 21st, 2019 AT 12:41 PM
Tiny
JAY_SANCHEZZ15
  • MEMBER
  • 45 POSTS
Hi,

I do not believe there are any cooling system issues per say.
But I think what will occur is once it gets -10* or -20* below some days here in MN is that I will have to sit/drive my car just to get some heat going.
My girl friend's car will heat up in a shorter time frame and stay relatively warm to be able to provide heat to the cabin even after it being shut off for 30 minutes.
Also, wouldn’t the car dump more fuel or stay in open loop longer because it needs to reach operating temperature compared to a car that can retain the heat.
Just wondering if there is something I should look out for.
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Thursday, November 21st, 2019 AT 1:30 PM
Tiny
ASEMASTER6371
  • MECHANIC
  • 52,797 POSTS
The car goes into closed loop 15 seconds after it is started.

As far as heating up in the bitter cold, it will take more time on your car. It is an aluminum block and it heats up slower than cast iron. Your block dissipates heate quicker than your girlfriend's car.

I still do not see any issue with your car at all. It is just the car.

Roy
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Thursday, November 21st, 2019 AT 1:40 PM

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