temperature guage rising while car idles

MITSUBISHI
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JVENTU2
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I have a 2000 Mitsubishi Galant with about 110000 miles. 4 cyl engine, I believe 1.6L.

Over the past couple of weeks I have noticed that when the car is idling that the temperature guage goes all the way up to where the car looks like it is going to overheat. Once I start to drive, the guage goes back to normal. Also, I have noticed a smell similiar to fluid burnoff coming from the front right wheel area. I am not sure if these issues are related and don't know what the problem may be.

Thanks
Oct 25, 2007 at 8:14 PM
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RASMATAZ
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
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When was the last time the thermostat has been changed and also do you hear the fan kick in when its needed?

Coolant could be low.
Oct 26, 2007 at 4:29 AM
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JVENTU2
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THE THERMOSTAT HAS NEVER BEEN CHANGED BUT I DID NOTICE THAT THE COOLANT WAS EXTEMELY LOW AND THE OVERFLOW WAS ALMOST EMPTY.

I AM GOING TO FILL UP AND SEE IF THIS FIXES THE PROBLEM.

THANKS FOR THE RESPONSE.
Oct 26, 2007 at 1:13 PM
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