Daily Driver Help???

[5inchfatlip]

Hello- need some quick advice...My Daily driveris a 89 MazdaMPV Minivan, been great and has 180,000 miles on it. Lately it has been heating up when I turn the car off for short periods of time....
For example, I sit at a long drive thru, turn the car off, after a few minutes, turn the car on , the temp gauge goes over half then back down in a few seconds..
Same thing like when I fill up with gas, heats up as it sits...
the car NEVER gets hot while running or in traffic, and never has done this before...so I basically rule out other issues since driving is fine...someone said the sending unit??? anyone?? thanks!

 

[matteni]

Sounds like a stuck / malfunctioning themostat. You wouldn't believe how many warped heads and blown radiators have sacraficed themselves for this $14 part!

You definately want to check this out and have it fixed. If I am right - it is typically inexpensive.

 

[L5-S1NSX]

I Agree,,sounds like the Thermostat

 

[5inchfatlip]

ok- thermostat can make a difference when the car is off?? I always thought only when the car is running it will open up when heated??

 

[matteni]

Sounds like it may be getting stuck and/or it is giving a false reading when running.

 

[5inchfatlip]

It runs normal at times when the car is running or idling....once I shut it off seems to heat up...I'll give it a shot, easy fix hopefully.