The temperature gauge in my Maxima never reads above the third notch from the bottom. This is below the mid-point by 1/2 a notch ( The mid-point would be between the third and fourth notches ) Is this most likely just due to the temperature gauge not being precision ?

 

That is exactly where mine stays on my '02

 

It's most likely due to the fact that your engine temperature, in most instances, is regulated by the intrinsic heat it produces while running and the radiator that keeps it cool at the same time.

Additionally, i could go as far as saying that the temperature gauge may not be accurate but it can very well be precise.

 

Drain about six quarts from your cooling system, and the gauge should then read around the mid-point.