Temperature gauge passed 260

PHBALANCED2014

MEMBER
2004 GMC ENVOY
4.2L
V8
4WD
AUTOMATIC
168,000 MILES

I have had this truck about six months. The oil gauge always goes to the far right. Last night my temperature gauge went well passed 260. I checked the overflow and radiator and they were both okay. The temperature of the fluids were not that of a overheated vehicle. Where should I start please and thanks. Also, when I turn the car off the gauge stays over the 260 mark. How safe is it to drive to have it checked and get parts? May need to drive for a few days until I can get in to get it fixed.

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
108,170 POSTS

Hi and thanks for using 2CarPros.

If the engine did not seem to actually be overheating, the temperature sensor may have shorted. That is the first thing I would check.

If that is the case, it should be okay to drive. However, there is no way for me to be sure it is not actually overheating.

There are two temperature sensors on your vehicle. One is for the computer, which is not the one we need, and the other sends a signal to the gauge.

If I recall, in 2004, they were mounted on the front of the engine block near behind the alternator.

Let me know if you have other questions.

Joe