Hey guys,
I've got a 2001 XJ that I picked up for $600 (79k miles, what a steal ). I'm having an odd problem with it, though. I've been driving it for six months or so, and this is just starting now. When it is colder out (below 55ish), the temerature gauge shows that the engine is overheating, but when I pop the hood, the engine isn't hot at all. This happens a few minutes after the temperature levels out (210-220), and then the "check gauges" light comes on. Oddly, though, it only lasts for a minute or so, and normally doesn't happen when I'm idling. To add, this started on Tuesday on my way to school. On the way home, when it's warmer (70-80F), this doesn't happen, and the Jeep functions like normal. Any ideas?

 

Sounds like the temp sensor is just going out. However absolutely make sure to check your oil for coolant and your coolant for oil. A 2001 with that few miles for only $600 sets off a billion alarm bells... unless the entire body is rust

 

x2 on everything

 

Check electrical connections and grounds. Cold/cool temps can cause just enough contraction to cause a bad electrical connection.....warm things up and expansion may make a re-connection.

 

The car was $600 from a wealthy friend moving to NYC. Garage kept its entire life, AAA came to fix everything, no rust. Thing is great. I'm just assuming the ground is bad; my father suggested that as well. I'll check it in the AM.

 

For anyone who is interested, we pressure tested it today, and found that it was a busted freeze plug. Taking it to my cousin's place tonight to fix it.

 

So we're actually saying the XJ overheats due to a coolant leak vs cold weather....hummm, makes more sense.

 

Yes it does. It was just only every doing it when it was cold out lol

 

Awesome deal for that XJ!