Overheating message at operating temp after thermostat change

[Lepper]

A few days ago my car started overheating....


My thermostat only has 30k miles on it, but its 9 years old so I figured I would try to change it out hoping it wasnt a water pump. After changing the thermostat, I noticed it got to running temp pretty quick, but then I got the overheating message that I would normally not get until the temp gauge was 3/4 the way full. This time I got the message the temperature gauge was dead center. The system is probably slightly low on coolant from draining it for the thermostat change, but I topped it off with distilled water and then test drove it.

Does this mean my water pump is bad? Top radiator hose is hot which means im getting flow correct? Could it be a coolant temp sensor? Radiator?

[80sGuy]

Check your coolant temp sensor on the flange. I'd start with that. Easy and cheap replacement.

[Theiceman]

you could have an air pocket too....but that should work it's way out over ight. top it up first thing next morning and try again

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[Lepper]

I added more coolant and the message went away instantly and has yet to come back. I drove 15-20 minutes and I didn't overheat. Today was really cold and I'd like to test it on a warmer day, but I have yet to have overheating yet.

Really hoping it was just the thermostat.