Yesterday I noticed that the temperature guage maxed out above the hot level when I was driving. It was freezing cold and I did not drive much (just 2-3 miles), so I thought the temperature might not be so high as the gauge indicated. I added some coolant but got no luck to fix the temperature gauge problem. Even I put the key on the accessory position without starting the car, the temperature gauge still topped to the highest level.
Today I cannot even start the car. The battery is quite new and I jump started the car; but no go.
Are these two problems related? some bad wiring?
When I was able to start the car, there is no light on the panel, no malfunction light, no oil light; everyting appeared okay, just the temp gauge maxed out.
The engine oil's color is not pretty (I should change the oil in days) but the oil level is between min and max.
Any thoughts or suggestions? Thank you in advance for your reply.

 

A bad ETCS will cause a no start condition. Especially if theres an open in the sensor or wires. Data list will read -40f and ecm will misinterpet this as really cold weather and richens the mixture and wash the cylinder down with fuel. ways to rich..

 

Thanks. Is the temp gauge problem related to the no start condition?

If it is a bad ETCS, would it be a costly repair? Should I tow the car to the dealer, or a regular garage can fix this problem?