My MINI's fan has been whirring after the car is turned off lately. I read here that it's usually an issue with a low overflow coolant tank, but I haven't had time to take a look at it yet. Well, today I was heading to the bank and halfway there my temp spiked to the red and the little red indicator was flashing at me (not solid red). I pulled over and opened the bonnet. The hood was relatively cold, and the car was really just under normal operating temperature, even though the gauge showed differently. When I turned off the car, the fan ran for at least four to five minutes after it was off.

I started it back up after cooling and the gauge went to normal. I drove it home and the gauge didn't move at all, let alone back up to the red.

Is this new transgression a product of low coolant as well, or do I have another issue?

 

i have the same issue and i was wondering if anyone can give the answer. im very worried what the problem is...

 

Alright, I figured I should update. That night I checked the coolant level. Of course, it was ridiculously low. Like, none in the overflow. I filled the overflow to the fill-line with dH2O and ran it for a while till the car heated up to operating temp. Checked again, and added maybe another quarter-litre of dH2O. Haven't had the issue since!

 

Folks should realize that the temp gauge stays at the center mark for a span of 35 to 40 degrees, so your car can be running hot, and not show it in the 'red' zone on the gauge. Sharpie did correct in shutting down as soon as the needle started to move above half-way. Just be careful driving a car with temp regulation problems: as soon as the needle moves, you're in trouble!

 

Yeah, it's really an idiot gauge.

It's software driven so that it's pegged at the center when the water temp is within the normal operating range so as not to freak out owners who might be alarmed by the actual water temp fluctuations.

 

If you ever see that temp gauge register anything but a normal temp, it means it's time for a huge repair bill......lol.

Get a scan Gauge II from Wayland at www.Waymotorworks.com or www.Outmotoring.com It's a great investment and can be used in any car you own, or will own.

 

very true. a scanguage II really is a ultimate mod. shows the temps to an exact. my engine ranges from 186 till 220 when the fan comes on and the needle wont move at all... but the scanguage shows it. if it wasnt for my scanguage i wouldve needed a lot more repairs then just a thermostat replacement!