I just picked up this car for a dd. When i was driving i noticed that the temp gauge only read about 1/8 of the way up when on the highway and about 1/4 at most city driving. Is this how it should be. I know on my prelude 1/2 way was normal operating temperature. Just want to make sure.

 

thats close to where mine always ran. You should be fine.

 

You might want to swap out your thermostat. Once warm, it should keep the temp the same whether city or hwy driving. If its real cold out, and your on the hwy, the thermostat will partially close off to keep the temp optimal, and if you are in the city, stop and go traffic, it will open up to flow the coolant and keep the optimal temp.

Its a quick and easy install and cheap part. It probably isn't a dire necessity unless it goes too close to cold or too far to hot. Like if you had vtec, the cold coolant temps could stop your vtec from engaging. At least I think it monitors engine temps as a prerequisite for vtec engagement.

Just curious, does it still have the original radiator and do the fans come on at all.
I have installed a new radiator and new thermostat, and mine sits a bit less that halfway, but stays there rock solid, never flinching in either direction once at operating temps, and I travel hwy and city often every day.

 

hes right

vtec is engaged by oil pressure btw

 

yep no need to worry

 

as far as i know its the stock radiator, not sure if the fans go on or not. It was the first time taking it for a drive. I am in buffalo so its pretty cold. From what i've noticed, it fluctuates between 1/8 and 1/4. It has 135k on it. Mabey changing the thermostat isnt a bad idea. A radiator flush couldnt hurt.