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lanac8138

Hi just bought a rav4 1995 oval good condition.
1 problem which I have not come across with other cars I have owned.
Drive around town temperature gauge normal.
On the open road temperature gauge reads colder to the point it reads close to startup temperature. Car runs ok getting plenty of heat from the heater.
What is causing the temperature to act like this ?
And should I worry about it damage it could cause ?
bye Kim

Anon

Hi there,
This scenario is typical when the cooling system thermostat is stuck open or has been removed. Best to get the vehicle looked at before long as a cold running engine will use more fuel than it should. Hopefully it's not been done to mask an overheating issue if it was fitted- but it may not be known until the thermostat is checked to see if it is there but stuck open (old age) or is missing.