93 Accord idles hot

Hi. I just inherited a '93 Honda accord with 325 000 km (just over 200 000 miles) and a few problems. The most concerning one right now is that whenever I am stopped at a light or a sign, the temperature gauge jumps way up. As soon as I put it in neutral or just start driving again the temperature gauge goes back down quickly.

Is this more likely a problem with the gauge or thermostat, or is a more serious?

Ther car also has an unidentified leak. It is slow and our mechanic couldn't find the source. We have checked the oil, tranny fluid, and coolant - all levels are fine.

It also idles pretty low and rough.

It sounds like your cooling system is in need of bleeding. When it is cold (the system) try to open you radiator cap and see if you have enough antifreeze. If your coolant level is OK and the expantion tank is up to the "full" mark, park on a hill nose up with the radiator cap opened and run it for a while. It shoul bleed your air pockets (if they are present).

Good luck,

Sam

Well, another possibility is your fan sensor. When you drive your engine is cooled by the air flow. When you are stopped the fan suppose to cool the engine.

Sam

I will definitely try bleeding it. As far as the fan goes - it usually comes on as soon as I stop and turn off the car (I live up a hill, so that isn' unexpected). Next time I come home I will leave the car on and see if I can hear it.

I will definitely try bleeding it. As far as the fan goes - it usually comes on as soon as I stop and turn off the car (I live up a hill, so that isn' unexpected). Next time I come home I will leave the car on and see if I can hear it.
I have heard about a trick mechanics have: open your door while the car is running and put your foot on the ground. You will definately feel the air flow.

Make sure you DO NOT open the radiator cap when the car is hot. It is very dangerous: the contents are under pressure.

Sam

Hi. I just inherited a '93 Honda accord with 325 000 km (just over 200 000 miles) and a few problems. The most concerning one right now is that whenever I am stopped at a light or a sign, the temperature gauge jumps way up. As soon as I put it in neutral or just start driving again the temperature gauge goes back down quickly.

Is this more likely a problem with the gauge or thermostat, or is a more serious?

Ther car also has an unidentified leak. It is slow and our mechanic couldn't find the source. We have checked the oil, tranny fluid, and coolant - all levels are fine.

It also idles pretty low and rough.is your fans working if so i'd try a new thermost.or flush radiator...