Temperature Gauge Not Working

I have a 1997 Escort Wagon with 75K miles.The needle stays on cold even after car has been running several hours.Could it be the thermostat? :screwy:

I have a 1997 Escort Wagon with 75K miles.The needle stays on cold even after car has been running several hours.Could it be the thermostat? :screwy:

Generally if a thermostat is 'open' the temperature gauge will show a cold engine. It could also be the ECT (Engine coolant temperature) sensor itself, the connector loose, or terminals dirty. If you have a VOM the ECT can be checked easily if you decide to go that route.

I had the same problem......my temp gauge wasnt working when I bought the car.sooooooooo...... the check engine light came on and i took it to advance auto....the hooked a computer up to it for FREE....and they said it was a senser....I put a new senser in and the temp gauge works now......but my fan still wasnt coming on....I changed the fan senser and now the fan wont cut off.but its not over heating and the ford place told me I dont have a relay on my car......anyway....... go to advance they can fix you right up

I have found with these cars that anytime the gauge is not working at all then it is the temp sending unit... first check to make sure it is plugged in... if you have the equipment for it you can test the sensor directly... but $10-15 will get you a new one.