'96 Outback. Larger engine (2.5L?)

 

My temperature gauge fluctuates from medium to full hot and back down again while the engine shows no other signs of trouble: No steam boiling out, coolant level is normal, engine seems to operate normally. I suspect the sending unit has lost its mind. Where is it? How can I test it? Should I test the Gauge also?

 

Maybe I should measure the actual operating temp of the engine. What should it be?

 

Thanks,

Paul

my guess would be either a sticky thermastat or a air pocket in the cooling system.

OBD2 scanner will show engine coolant temp independently from your tem gauge. It should be 180-212 or so.

Check it out before driving more as you might be overheating the engine.