You would think this would be easy to find, but, I have yet to find it. What is the normal operating temperature for a 2004 XKR? I believe mine is running hot, stays in the mid to upper 190's and when going up hills it hits 203-208! I'm getting ready for a coolant change and new thermostat, from what I have found OEM thermostat is 183, is that correct?

On a totally separate topic, my car is a portfolio with the BBS rims. Where can I get a new set of the center wheel caps? Lost one and the others are faded....

 

Thermostat starts to open at 195, full open at 210.

Yours is fine. Contrary to myth a lower temp thermostat is not better for the engine.

 

For 2004MY, JTIS gives:

"The thermostat starts to open at 80°C to 84°C (176°F to 183°F) and is fully open at 96°C (205°F)."

Graham

 

I stand corrected, thanks Graham.

The car is still fine as-is.

 

+1
they're designed to run pretty hot

I suppose they could be run cooler with resulting lower mpg and I suspect higher emissions.

 

Correct higher temps = higher efficiencies. The 'ideal' engine would operate at peak combustion chamber temps to eliminate heat losses to the coolant and oil. Current oils and metallurgy don't permit this however.

 

Thanks for all the replies! I am on this site a lot, but, mainly find what I need via search. Very happy to hear this is one less thing to worry about....Now on to my laundry list of items that need addressed: replace front & rear shocks (rears purchased, not installed); replace aux. intercooler pump (ordered and on its way); driver's side quarter window (think its the regulator) this one sucks because I can't put the top down; replace fuel level sending unit (fuel gauge is always full +) and I'm tired of typing the issues, brings me down.....

 

Stick with it. Sounds like you're doing the right things. Grab JTIS as it's a mine of info.

 

YES, YES

Good to hear on both counts.

Graham

 

I currently use "Dash Command to monitor my temp. It seems to rise until 190. Then fluctuates between 190 and 210 depending on the load and air movement through the radiator. Most of the time it's between 193 and 203.