Teej

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?

salad

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

ZINGGG

x2 on everything

djb383

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.

Teej

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.

Teej

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.

djb383

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

Teej

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

Muaddib420

Awesome deal for that XJ!