CAR BUFFS: Does it mean anything really bad if the heat meter goes up in the car???

Question

I dont really know how to word this? But i'm hoping you kind of know what i mean...

I"m buying a car and i when i went for a test drive the heat meter went way up and my dad said that was really really bad. I dont know...

Answer 1

This could mean:
1. Clogged radiator $300.00+
2. Bad thermostat $50.00+
3. Bad water pump $300.00+
4. Cooling fan module $500.00+++
5. Cooling fan $500.00+
6. Poor oil circulation $***********************bad motor
Listen to your dad!!!! He has had a few cars before.
Leave this one alone. It can only cost you big bucks!!!!!

Answer 2

You mean the temperature gauge? Yes, it's not good if it goes up past 220 F. It can mean a few things - the thermostat in the engine is sticking, which controls temperature ( easy fix, although messy). There is too little engine coolant in the water (easy fix). The radiator is seriously loaded with deposits which prevent heat transfer(expensive). The cooling fan ( electric or mechanical? ) is not working, usually electric(can be just a fuse, or bad fan), you can see and hear the mechanical fan if it has one. All depends on age of the car, type of motor, etc. Air cooled, water cooled? That all factors in.

Answer 3

First of all yes it is a very bad sign, second don't touch that car with a barge pole . go else where and take somebody with you that knows what to look for . If you don't you will get ripped off.

Answer 4

Dad's right. Stay away from an overactive heat meter.

Answer 5

It means the engine is about to burn up. Not a car you want to buy.

Answer 6

It meens the car is over heating...

Answer 7

It might just be that the coolant level is low and or that some hoses are leaking. Those are the things to check out.