high engine temperature? possible damage?
 

I have a '10 ET SE and I've noticed that the engine temperature was up to 20 degrees higher than normal. I've figured out why, but I was wondering if there was any lasting damage...

I was driving from FL - AZ, and did not notice that my coolant was a tad low (there was still coolant in the overflow tank, but the level was below the L level). I have a scanguage, so I know that the normal operating temperature is 182 degrees. For most of the drive, the temperature ranged from 190 - 210 at high speeds and high RPM's. Do you think this have caused any lasting damage to the engine or cooling components? I'm guessing that +/- 20 degrees is within the tolerances, but was just concerned...

for reference, my last oil and filter change was about 8,000 miles ago and I used Mobil1 5W-20 EP (oil and filter good for 15k).

Thank you for your insights!

lot of think can affect engine temps a/c on-off, outside temps altitute if car are load if car climb hill etc i don't think 20 degree more is bad

210 isn't high. You didn't hurt anything.

Is there any pinging?
 

I have owned 2 other Hyundai's besides my Touring. Have you noticed any new pinging noises when accelerating in low speeds? This is generally what happens if you overheat a small engine, even for a short period (unless you completely ignore the warning signs and do more damage).

My experience with my former 2 Hyundai's is that if the engine overheats always remember to check the fan relay switch as a possible culprit. I had a mechanic go over every inch and never noticed that the fan wasn't coming on. He replaced the thermostat and even started in about a new radiator. It was the relay.

kalun47,

I run a scan gauge in my other car (non-hyundai), and it gets into the 190-210 at times, completely normal within tolerances.

I have a question for you, did you notice any gas mileage increase when you switched to Mobil 1 5w20 ep synthetic oil?

I an curious because I will be switching to synthetic oil in my wifes ET when I do the next oil change in 7500 miles.

Thank You in Advance!

I wish I can answer that, but I've used Mobil1 EP since about 1500 miles, so I don't have enough information to answer that. However, I can say I am very disappointed with the gas mileage, especially on the highway. During my 2600 x-country drive, I averaged about 26-27 mpg at approx 75 mph. granted the car was heavy, but still...

That's your problem. Slow down and your mileage will go up. It's a proven fact mileage goes down quickly over 55-mph.

I get 32-35 mpg on the highway at 60-65 mph. In the city is where I get hammered... 19 mpg at best, but that is because I have to do short trip driving for my job. I can make 10-20 stops on a half day when I have to drive, which isn't often. I have just over 12K miles on my ET I bought in October 09.