This is not a new issue, I just haven't got around to posting about it. After a dash removal for replacement of the RHD wiring loom to a LHD loom, I've noticed that my cluster temp gauge does not work. Gauge sits on 'cold' and doesn't move. Illumination is OK. ECU talk reads correct operating temp coolant temp sensor appears to be working correctly (refer point 2) to the best of my knowledge, all wiring plugs are connected into the back of the dash cluster. I do have 1 'spare' 7-wire plug hanging loose behind the cluster, but this appears to be a 'unused' plug as per the FSM. Can anyone advise whether the earth for the temp gauge is earthed somewhere behind the dash, or routed back thru the loom? Is it possible that I'm missing a connection which was present on the RHD loom which isn't present on the LHD loom?
Your temp gauge does not use the same sender as the ECU. The gauge signal comes from the single wired sensor next to the 2 wired CTS. Have you got auto climate control? It may be playing up too as it uses the 1 wire sensor as well. Check that sensor for connectivity
earth for the temp gauge is the sensor on the engine, it basically has supplies a varying amount of resistence to earth depending on the engine temp and this gives the gauge its signal, if you earth it to the body or similar the gauge will read like its overheating. so your dash loom should provide power to the temp gauge (from a source such as the ignition) then the earth runs from the gauge to the engine and through the single wire sensor. - You will normally find most sensors work this way, like fuel tank level, oil pressure/temp and water reservoirs
Thanks guys. I inspected the temp gauge sensor, and appears the wiring is ok, its just there is movement in the connector tab. I will need to retension the connector plug, and probably press the tab back down and little to tighten it up, and maybe give it a dab of solder to keep it electrically sound. Saved me cursing at the car for a good few hours while pinning out the ECU and sensor wiring.
