My 2000 Dodge Neon us really slow at warming up. Idling it takes 30-45 minutes. Doesn't overheat. I have replaced the thermostat, but it looks like it's not opening at the right temperature. Here's a chronological order of temperature vs times:

Engine started @ 430pm. Started monitoring Temps after 180.
Temp 180 @5:00pm
Temp 193 @ 5:07pn
Temp 194 @ 5:10pm
Temp 195 @ 5:12pm
Temp 199 @ 5:13pm
Temp 201 @ 5:15pm
Temp 203 @ 5:17pm
Temp 204 @ 5:19pm
Temp 206 @ 5:20pm
Temp 208 @ 5:22pm
Temp 210 @ 5:25pm
Temp 212 @ 5:26pm
Temp 215 @ 5:31pm
Thermostat opens And fan turned on.

And for an odd reason the cooling fan turned on at 174 degrees and off at 176. Also my temperature gauge in the instrument cluster never reads more than 1/3.

Suggestions?

Robert

 

what * thermostat are you using, most open at 180-190* so it really shouldn't warm up past that, especially parked and idling

Did all this happen after you started working on it, or is this the reason you started working on it? Always make sure the system is free of air as that can give ***** results

 

The heater has not been getting very hot so I drained and flushed everything. Pulled heater hoses and flushed the heater core as well. Eventually discovered the original thermostat was stuck open. Replaced the thermostat with a Duralast Gold 195 degree type. After the thermostat opens you can clearly see good circulation in the system indicating a functional water pump. Guess I will focus on ensuring the system is air free.

I would think with the thermostat closed that the engine would warm up quicker than it did?

Robert

 

I am wondering if you got a 160 thermostat. Try putting it some boiling water and watch the temp in the water to see when it opens up. Hope this helps