> What is the ideal operating temp. for a car?

What is the ideal operating temp. for a car?

Posted at: 2015-01-07 
my Pontiac has a temp. gauge that goes from 160 to 210, but the needle sits in the middle. What temp. does a car run at?

Most car temperature gauges are set up so that "normal" is close to the middle. A big departure from the middle is cause for concern, either direction.

Usually something around 180F, and that's generally the middle of most gauges. As long as it's steady, and not in the "cold" or "hot" it's probably normal.

The actual dash temperature should "mirror" (read the same as) the 195 degree thermostat rating as listed in the specifications pages of the glove compartment manual.

I also have a Pontiac Grand Prix and the numbers on the dash gauge and the pointer leave a not to be desired!

Most motors run at 192°F. The electric radiator fans turn on around 208°F.

180-190 is a good temp for most cars. some run hotter.

many variables here. ambient temp is one. vehicle speed is another. there is a preset temp that the coolant will begin to flow. with out knowing that, it is all just a guess.

That's where it should be. That's considered normal opeating temp

Every car is different, some cars run cooler than others.

That is perfect!

my Pontiac has a temp. gauge that goes from 160 to 210, but the needle sits in the middle. What temp. does a car run at?