12th Dec 2012, 20:15
That advice is wrong. Use a thermostat. You also may want a working cabin heater in December. Plus again, you'll see your fuel costs rise. 3 grand to reset lights, give us a break. Let this guy run with his dash lights on. It's ill advised and a false economy. Have your codes checked.
12th Dec 2012, 10:24
Absolutely totally disagree with your comments. No wonder taxes go up!
I have very expensive classic cars and new ones as well. I typically add electric aftermarket gauges.
Yes, an engine failure can occur with a too cool block.
Yes, low oil pressure can ruin an engine.
Yes, O2 sensor neglect can cause an increase in fuel expense and can clog cats.
Why ignore it? In Delaware a car will never pass inspection with the light on. The tester can also tell if you unhooked the battery briefly to clear it. I would never recommend to anyone to ignore lights or gauges. It may be a faulty gauge or a loose gas cap, but it can be very expensive to buy cats vs a sensor.
Also I run synthetic in my new vehicles, but am cautious on my older ones. If you have old seals, there are leak possibilities. Also I add ZDPP with my conventional in my Big Block GMs, so I don't destroy my cam. I have a new Corvette; I run Mobil 1 as indicated right on the cap.
The one size fits all edict is not advisable. You may cost someone on here an engine. My engine on one was reading out at 150 degrees; way too cold. I switched to a 180 degree thermostat to avoid engine damage. You want to pull a thermostat; try drilling it first. If you notice, a lot of newer cars have no radiator cap. I pull the thermostat and fill when I do a flush. I have purchased engines and it's been an upgrade, not because of driving around a few days to see if matters become worse!
I hope everyone heeds some advice and does not drive around. Have it looked at, and even a tow is not a bad recommendation, if you're not sure.