As we all know, this item (or rather, the compensation thingie) is squirrelly. But my gauge works, more or less, except for the past week it's been sitting just on the 9:00 position, rather than well under. I noticed this on Tuesday when the high here was a whopping 58F and also today with more characteristically-June temps of about 78F when I was also running the AC due to stupefying humidity. The gauge has never moved above the 9:00 position, but then it's never actually been at the 9:00 position until this week.

I have not bypassed the comp board. Yet. I guess that would be a good weekend project (and I can also reset the damned "Service!" lamp since I can't seem to reach the reset switch with that ginormous knee bolster in the way).

How do I know if my car's actually overheating? She's running fine. Coolant level is OK, hoses are iffy but I am replacing those next week along w/thermostat, radiator is in great shape.