Low Engine Coolant on DIC

[moboley]

A few weeks ago, I took a road trip to my home town. That weekend the weather got cold for the first time. I noticed that my temp gauge was running high, between 240 and 270. I stopped the car and took precautions. I shut it down and noticed that the gauge was resting around the 150 mark with the vehicle completely turned off. I corrected itself after a few starts, but every once in a while, it would do this again for a couple days, then hasnt done it again.

Now for the past few days, as soon as I turn the vehicle on and it runs a minute os so, the Low Engine Coolant warning goes off. I've checked my levels. They are good and unchanging. Temp gauge rests right at 200 when running.

Opinions? Sensor issue? Coolant flush needed? Water pump failure?

[dpnewfie]

It has been my experience that the slightest level change in the coolant reservoir will set the "low coolant level" in the DIC.

The variation in temp readings may be related to a failing sensor.

[DanShuler]

If your coolant level is good then it will need to be replaced a coolant level sensor.

[deakster44]

I had the exact same issue occur last week (Temp spike, temp @ 150 when off). The coolant reservoir was full, so I figured my thermostat was stuck shut. I replaced it (losing a good amount of coolant) & noticed that the "low engine coolant" light on the DIC kept coming on. Eventually (with enough coolant added), the light has remained off - 2 days & counting. The sensor seems very touchy - I feel your pain.

[CMNTMXR57]

It's not touchy, it's Dexcool, gunking (best summarized way to put it), it up.

[L82shark]

any of you guys tried this yet?
http://www.ebay.com/itm/New-Coolant-Lev ... 0479609398

I just ordered one, may be a waste, but I am tired of the light going off. will try it first before I replace more

[Gagger14]

any of you guys tried this yet?
http://www.ebay.com/itm/New-Coolant-Lev ... 0479609398

I just ordered one, may be a waste, but I am tired of the light going off. will try it first before I replace more

I have a similar issue, but mine just starts going off near my oil change interval so I just have 'them' top it off when I get my oil change.

You'll have to let us know how that level sensor works and if its easy to install or not. I've been meaning to replace mine, just haven't gotten around to it in the cold...

[Bvill_GXP]

Mine has done this 2 times within 1 years time... The 2nd time was 2 days ago, so i pulled into the local auto parts store and bought a gallon jug of coolant, but the level was decent and wasn't low at all!! But i did pour a little in so i wouldn't feel like i just wasted my time and $13.00 lol But it hasn't done it yet so im thinking about getting that sensor you posted for $24.. Thanks for the post

[sethjamesrimrodt]

You cannot just buy the sensor, it's molded into the overflow. You have to but a new overflow.

[ZimGXP]

Get a scanner and verify the temp is correct. The gauges are known to go whacky.

[Bvill_GXP]

Gotta buy a new overflow tank... That sucks just for a sensor!! Oh well, If i come across a good deal for one ill grab it and hold on to it till i really need it!! Thanks for the info

[M90power]

deathcool perhaps.

[samples08]

you guys do realize you dug up an old dead Thread?