What is the temperature light on a Honda?

The temperature light on a Honda vehicle is an important indicator that alerts the driver to potential issues with the engine's cooling system. This light, also known as the "check engine" or "service engine soon" light, can illuminate for various reasons, and understanding its purpose is crucial for maintaining your Honda's performance and safety.

What is the Temperature Light?

The temperature light on a Honda is a warning indicator that illuminates when the engine's coolant temperature exceeds a certain threshold. This light is typically yellow or amber in color and is part of the vehicle's onboard diagnostics system. When the temperature light is on, it indicates that the engine is running hotter than normal, which can be caused by a variety of issues, such as a problem with the cooling system, a malfunctioning thermostat, or a leak in the coolant system.

Reasons the Temperature Light May Illuminate

• Coolant Leak: A leak in the coolant system can cause the engine to overheat, triggering the temperature light. This could be due to a faulty hose, a cracked radiator, or a problem with the water pump.


• Thermostat Malfunction: The thermostat is responsible for regulating the flow of coolant to the engine. If the thermostat is stuck open or closed, it can cause the engine to overheat, leading to the temperature light illuminating.


• Radiator Fan Failure: The radiator fan helps to dissipate heat from the engine. If the fan is not working properly, the engine may overheat, causing the temperature light to turn on.


• Low Coolant Level: If the coolant level in the system is low, the engine may not be able to dissipate heat effectively, leading to overheating and the temperature light illuminating.

It's important to note that the temperature light may also illuminate briefly during normal driving conditions, such as when the engine is first started or when the vehicle is under heavy load, such as when towing a trailer or climbing a steep hill. In these cases, the light should turn off once the engine has had a chance to warm up or the load on the engine has decreased.

What to Do When the Temperature Light is On

If the temperature light on your Honda illuminates, it's important to take action immediately to prevent further damage to the engine. Here are some steps you can take:

• Pull Over Safely: If the light comes on while driving, find a safe place to pull over and turn off the engine.


• Check the Coolant Level: Open the coolant reservoir and check the level. If it's low, add more coolant to the system.


• Inspect for Leaks: Look for any signs of coolant leaks, such as drips or puddles under the vehicle.


• Allow the Engine to Cool: Let the engine cool down for at least 30 minutes before attempting to start it again.


• Seek Professional Assistance: If the temperature light remains on or the engine continues to overheat, it's best to have the vehicle inspected by a qualified Honda technician.

By understanding the purpose of the temperature light and taking prompt action when it illuminates, you can help prevent further damage to your Honda's engine and ensure the safety and reliability of your vehicle.

What is the temperature warning light on a Honda?

High Coolant Temperature Warning Light
Your car's coolant temperature is too high, and the engine is overheating. You can consider this as one of the Honda "do not drive" warning lights, as continuing to drive the vehicle when this warning light is active will result in catastrophic engine damage.

What is the temperature light on the dashboard?

A temperature light on the dash indicates the engine is too hot or, less commonly, too cold. If the light is red, it means the engine is overheating, and you should immediately pull over, shut off the engine, and let it cool down to prevent serious damage. A blue light means the engine is too cold, which is usually normal at startup and will disappear once the engine warms up.
 
This video explains what to do when your engine temperature warning light comes on: 55sDashboard warning lights YouTube · Mar 11, 2025
If the light is red (overheating)

• Pull over immediately: Find a safe place to stop as soon as possible. 
• Shut off the engine: Turn the engine off to stop it from overheating further. 
• Let it cool: Allow the engine to cool down completely for at least 20-30 minutes before attempting to check anything. 
• Check coolant level (when cool): Once cool, check the coolant reservoir and radiator for low levels and add coolant if necessary. 
• Seek professional help: If the light comes back on, or if you see signs of a leak, it's crucial to have the cooling system professionally inspected to fix the root cause (like a faulty thermostat, water pump, or a leak). 

If the light is blue (engine is too cold) 

• This is normal at startup: The light indicates the engine hasn't reached its optimal operating temperature yet. 
• Wait for it to turn off: The light should turn off on its own after a few minutes of driving as the engine warms up. 
• Avoid heavy acceleration: Drive gently until the light goes out to allow the engine to warm up properly. 

This video explains what to do when your engine is too cold: 53sDashboard warning lights YouTube · Mar 14, 2025

Can I drive my car with the temperature light on?

Red or Yellow – When the engine temperature warning light is red, it could mean your vehicle's coolant temperature is higher than normal. Driving should be stopped for at least 20 minutes. Blue – If the light is blue, your coolant's temperature is too low to work properly. When properly warmed up, it should turn off.

What might cause the temperature warning light to come on?

Your car's temperature warning light is on because your engine is likely overheating, which is most commonly caused by a low coolant level, a faulty thermostat, or a malfunctioning water pump. Other potential causes include issues with the radiator, cooling fans, a bad temperature sensor, or a blown head gasket. When the light comes on, it's crucial to safely pull over, shut off the engine, and let it cool down to avoid serious damage.
 
This video explains what the engine temperature warning light means: 45sDashboard warning lights YouTube · Nov 3, 2022
Common causes

• Low coolant: A leak or evaporation can cause the coolant level to drop, leading to overheating. 
• Faulty thermostat: If the thermostat is stuck closed, it prevents coolant from circulating properly. 
• Water pump failure: A broken or failing water pump cannot circulate the coolant through the engine. 
• Cooling fan issues: Malfunctioning fans cannot cool the radiator effectively, especially at low speeds or while idling. 
• Radiator problems: Clogged radiator passages or blocked fins prevent heat from dissipating. 
• Leaking coolant: Leaks from hoses, the radiator, or the water pump will lower coolant levels. 
• Faulty temperature sensor: A bad sensor can provide incorrect readings, either indicating a false alarm or failing to warn you when the engine is truly overheating. 
• Blown head gasket: This is a more serious issue where the gasket fails, allowing coolant and oil to mix and causing overheating. 

What you should do

1. Pull over immediately: Find a safe spot to stop the car as soon as possible. 
2. Shut off the engine: Turn the engine off completely and open the hood to help it cool down faster. 
3. Do not open the radiator cap: Never open the radiator cap while the engine is hot, as the pressurized hot liquid can cause severe burns. 
4. Let it cool down: Allow the engine to cool for at least 30 minutes or until it's cool to the touch. 
5. Check coolant level: Once cool, check the coolant level in the reservoir. If it's low, add the correct type of coolant. 
6. Seek professional help: If the light comes on again, or if you see a leak, do not continue driving. Have the vehicle towed to a mechanic to diagnose and repair the underlying problem.