2004 Polo 1.6 Erratic temp gauge

[ED van Greunen]

why will my 2004 polo's temp gauge rise and fall as i am driving along? Seems to raise as i am climbing a hill to the normal operating temperature, the when i freewheel it falls flat to cold. In traffic it stays at normal for longer but never exceeds it

[Ryandevraj]

Sounds like the Thermostat is staying open possibly. If you replace it make sure to get the correct temperature replacement.

[Ram013]

Sounds like the Thermostat is staying open possibly. If you replace it make sure to get the correct temperature replacement.

+1

[OettingerTDi]

My 2004 Polo 1.6 does exactly the same, thermostat sticking open.

I checked with Panic about this and seeing as the next cambelt service is due at 120k, the thermostat and waterpump will be changed at the same time. If I understand correctly, although not optimal, this isn't really a major issue, does not result in overfuelling and you can live with it until the opportunity arises to replace the thermostat.

[ED van Greunen]

Thanks Guys. 270k km's cambelt service due so will replace it as well with the water pump and everything else