Temp gauge bouncing

Rleptrone

Test Drive
my daughter called from me college yesterday and said her temp gauge on her '05 4.0L would jump to hot when accelerating and go back to normal when cruising or sitting at a traffic light. She said the AC also started blowing warm air when accelerating. Any suggestions where to start.
 

Prime

Shut up Baby, I know it!
Admin
Location
Denver Adjacent
Fan clutch is most likely. Could also try looking at the electric helper fan.

If the engine overheats the AC will run warm.
 

borclok

Test Drive
My car is doing the opposite. After driving around for at least 45 minutes, the temp gauge will go up at an idle, and then back down when I get to cruising speed. All fluids are topped off.
 

JeffPro4x

Hot Pipe
Super Moderator
Supporting Member
Location
Glenside, PA
my daughter called from me college yesterday and said her temp gauge on her '05 4.0L would jump to hot when accelerating and go back to normal when cruising or sitting at a traffic light. She said the AC also started blowing warm air when accelerating. Any suggestions where to start.
This sounds like a low coolant issue to me.
 

Manfred

Test Drive
Our 2007 Xterra started "running hot" with the temp gauge getting into the hot zone while cruising on the highway, dropping at lower speeds with higher RPMs. Replaced the thermostat and the fan clutch (which was bad). Problem remains. I am trying to replace the coolant temp sensor but am unable to disconnect the wire from the sensor on the engine. Barely enough room for my hand.

What's the secret to getting that wire unplugged so I can remove the temp sensor?

Many thanks!
 
Top