So, I've been test running my ZX when all of the sudden my temperature gauge stops working. It used to work just fine, but all of the sudden the needle sits all the way to the bottom.

Is there an easy way to test the gauge? I don't know where to look for at this moment; all the sensors related to temperature are new.

 

I had the same issue with my temp gauge. It wasn't working. I pulled off the connector to it, not like the normal connector clip, it's one of those little round clips, and then stuck a little all metal screwdriver I had into it and touched it to metal on the body of the car. Turned the power to on and then the gauge went all the way up, so that told me the gauge worked. There must have been corrosion on the connector or something, because after plugging it back in it all works again.

 

Ok, I tried to follow your instructions, but got a bit confused.

This connector that you're talking about, is it by the thermostat housing or behind the temperature gauge itself?

 

It's on the thermostat housing. I found this picture on a website, and this is on a turbo engine mind you, but these are the types of connectors I'm talking about.



Put like a nail or screw, something metal and long enough to touch the connector inside and then touch it to a bolt or metal part on the body to ground it. Then just put the key to the On position, no need to start the car, and if the gauge and wiring is good, the needle will go all the way to the other side of the gauge.

 

Oh! I get it now...thanks, I'll give that a try

 

they are called bullet connectors, those sender guages suck on these cars. ive got a thread started on hybridz to see if anybody has tried a different type of sender. like a ford on that has a threaded stud on it that a loop terminal can go on. i hate these senders!!!!

 

rgr that. mine broke off last time I was workin on the car but I'm planning on doing nothing about it.

and liking it.