OK so a few weeks ago some anonymous asshat decided to remodel my front bumper, lights and hood on my Integra (another reason to drive a beater Shawn. )

Anyway, there was no damage to the radiator but today, with the cold temperature, I noticed that if I turned the heat on, the temperature gauge dropped down to about 1/4 up from the coldest setting on the gauge. If I turn the heat off, it returned to almost normal, between 3/4 and dead center. It's run a bit colder on the temp gauge than it did prior to the mishap. I guess that's due to the extra air getting under the hood.

My question is: Is it bad for the engine to run too COLD? Obviously too hot is bad, but what if the engine temp is too cold? Any problems with that?

Keep in mind this was after about 45 minutes of highway driving, so the engine was well warmed up.

I replaced the radiator hoses last summer and I bought a new thermostat which I never installed. Think it might help to install the new one?

Thanks.

Neil

 

that's normal, that's why when your car is about to overheat you are suppose to turn the heat on.

 

Yeah I know, but I'm nervous about the car running that cold even at highway speed.

 

If it is too cold the ECU would let you know; DTC P0128 I beleive.

Other than that, the gauge may be acting up, They are, at best, an idiot light.

 

Hey I resemble that remark.

So I guess my question is what is the worst that happens from running the car too cold?

Thanks Steve.

 

There are issues such as poor fuel economy. But if the oil is up to temp, which I am sure it is, then there is little to worry about mechanically.

The ECU would set the check engine light if it was too low though, regardless of what the gauge shows.