Temperature gauge not working properly?

2016 GMC TERRAIN

175,000 MILES • 2.4L • 4 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC

ERIC YOUNG

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1 POST
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Sometimes my temperature gauge reads cold even though the engine has been running and the cooling fan will run for approximately 5 minutes after I shut it off or while stopped, I can hear the fan running. Warm air will blow out the heater vents if turned on.
The gauge will often read normal after some time. I notice that this happens a lot of times if I get in the vehicle, start the engine and leave soon after starting it.

Mar 5, 2024 at 5:09 PM

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JACOBANDNICKOLAS

AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
110,190 POSTS

Hi,

The first thing I would check is the coolant temperature sensor to make sure the wiring and connector are in good condition. If they are, I would likely change the sensor.

Since it does work at times, chances are it is a connector issue, so disconnect it and inspect the connector pins for damage or corrosion.

I attached the directions below for replacing it. Note: The directions are extremely vague. You can either drain the engine coolant below the level of the sensor or be fast in replacing it. Coolant will leak from the engine when it is removed.

Also, here is a link explaining how it's done. It is on a different vehicle, but the same principles apply. It may be more helpful.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/coolant-temperature-sensor-cts-replacement

Let me know what you find or if you have other questions,

Take care,

Joe

See pics below.

Images (Click to enlarge)

Mar 5, 2024 at 8:16 PM