How do i test componnets to find problem? My temp guage is just about non working, but every now and then it will bounce around a bit. It quit the same way, started bouncing around alot, and then just went dead. this happened over the span of about 6 or 8 months. can a signal be appied to the wires to see if the guage and or wires are good, can senders be checked? Oh and where is the sensors? 1996 gen 4 maxima. Thermostat changed recently, before temp went out.

 

follow the upper radiator hose until it hits hardline and there are two sensors. The smaller of the two, with a rubberized connector, is the water temp sender. The bigger one is the coolant temp sensor for the ECU. Replace both as they are both cheap and both important. Also, why did you comment on my old thread before you made this one saying you solved this very problem when you obviously did not? no bueno

 

Temp sensor for the cluster:


Unplug it, the gauge should bottom out. Ground out the connector, the gauge should top out.

I'd be expecting a corrosion issue or loose connection at the cluster ECTS connector itself rather than a failed unit. Either way, they're very cheap.

 

Shock; this is totally different than the coolant problem. Low coolant, the Guage will slowly climb above normal, then slowly come back to normal, and repeat. My problem now looks like a lie detector needle. Very erratic and quick. Like an intermittent ground on a wire.