Temperature gauge sits high but temps are normal

Hey guys curious if anyone knows why my temp gauge sits above the middle even though temps are in the 180s?

 

Has it always been like that? My 02 was always slightly above the mid way point. I ended up swapping out the temp gauge as part of the 4WD swap (wanted the A/T P light) and it's now slightly below midway point. As long as it checks out via ODBII, wouldn't worry about it.

If this is somewhat new behavior, might try burping the sys and make sure no air is in there (?). Lisle kit is awesome.

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When was the last time coolant/thermostat were replaced?

 

If the temp is steady at 187F then I think you're good in terms of engine/cooling system health. I'd have a live reader up while you drive for a while and watch for any change in temps.
The sensor for the dash gauge is different than the sensor for OBD2, so there may be a chance you could replace the dash-sensor, it might be old and reading the temp wrong? I'm not sure though.

 

It's not a real gauge. It's an idiot light with a needle, only responding to ranges of temps.

So it doesn't matter what that's reading, what matters is what your scan tool sees.

Guessing you have a 180 tstat, so you're golden.

 

mine is like that and i read 185*-190* i covered that portion of my dash with my scangauge.

 

There are 2 different temp sensors, the 2 wire one is for the PCM, the one wire one is for the gauge. They are in 2 different locations on the motor.

 

My Dad has had a 2004 since new with the 3.4L V6 and his temp gauge has always been just like yours, slightly above half scale. He took it back to the dealership and had their technicians look into it. Temps we’re in proper range. Even checked other trucks on the lot at the time. The majority of them were reading just like his truck, and yours. His truck is approaching 130K and no coolant issues. Of course, when the timing belt was replaced, coolant was replaced with new T-stat.

 

Thanks. This is also a 2004. I bought the truck a couple weeks ago and drove it back home cross-country. I used my Bluedriver scanner throughout the trip and was always in the 180s so I assume its fine. Coolant levels have been consistent. Just different than what my 2002 looked like.

Could this mean there is an issue at that location?

Just got the truck. I don't think the thermostat has been replaced (or timing belt or water pump for that matter). Kind of recall seeing a coolant flush in the vehicle history. It looks clean and pink.

 

My 2001 3.4 does the same thing. First time I bought it with 8 miles on to now 230,000 the gauge is the same. If you are reading 180 degrees you are good.