Q: ETC Light/Temp Gauge

asked by on November 20, 2017

When first starting my 2008 avenger, after several minutes the check engine light and the etc light both come on. The temperature Gauge stays flat and doesn't move. After I stop and turn the car off and back on, the etc light disappears but the check enigine stays. The temp gauge starts working. If I drive for a while , the check engine light disappears but the temperature gauge can fluctuate. No driving issues. The car can stutter when starting the second time. The Heater isn't blowing out cold air, unsure if that's related. I've recently replaced the crankshaft position sensor and radiator.

My car has 104300 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

Check Engine Light is on Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

In resolving all these issues, the first step will be to download the OBD-II trouble codes that have caused the check engine light and the ETC warning lights to set. There will likely be issues related to those codes that will have to be diagnosed and repaired. It is unclear if the temperature gauge malfunction is related to any check engine light malfunctions although it is possible that a faulty sending unit could be a fault "in common". Whatever the underlying cause(s) turn out to be, if you request a check engine light diagnostic the responding certified mechanic will get the issues that you are writing in about taken care of for you. If you have further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to re-contact YourMechanic as we are always here to help you.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

What do I do if the starter turns slowly or the lights are dim?
When you turn the key in the ignition, the starter should engage quickly with no hesitation. Your interior lights should also turn on at their normal illumination. If the starter seems to be sluggish or the lights are dim, the...
How do I reset the average vehicle speed feature?
The average vehicle speed feature tells you the average speed that your car has been driving at since the last feature reset. Resetting the feature takes only two steps: Press the display button on the lower left side of the...
What does the traction control system/StabiliTrack light mean in a 2012 Chevrolet Cruze?
The traction control system (TCS)/StabiliTrack Warning Light is located on the instrument cluster. The TCS/StabiliTrack Warning Light is illuminated when the TCS and/or StabiliTrack systems are not functioning properly, or have been disabled. If the TCS/StabiliTrack Warning Light is flashing,...
Electronic throttle control light on
The throttle body is the part that allows and controls the entry of air into the engine. Throttle bodies have a butterfly valve inside them that opens when the gas pedal is pressed and closes when it is released. Your...
Truck will not turn left or right
Depending on how the vehicle was hit, the steering gear may have been broken. I recommend having a mechanic, such as one from YourMechanic, check out your steering issue (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/steering-wheel-does-not-turn-car-inspection) to identify and quote the repairs needed.
High transmission revving, check engine light and TSC light on
Hello. Since the Check Engine Light is on, I would usually scan the computer for codes first. This would give me a good indication of what is going on. Most of the time when the transmission acts like this and...
Maintenance on a 200k mile Forester
Hey there. The first step to take is to consider all of the repairs that have been made recently. If you have already performed anything I am about to discuss, then you can ignore that for the time being. You...
Why does my Car idle at 1500 and struggle to go faster than 25mph.
When the check engine light (CEL) illuminates, and stays on, you should have the engine problem diagnosed in a check engine light diagnostic (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/check-engine-light-is-on-inspection). An illuminated CEL means that the computer controlling the engine has detected a fault or faults....
Car won't start can't get vehicle in netural to tow.
Hi there. You could take a long pick and put it into the little slot that the shifter has a the top and push down on it. At the same time as you push down, take the gear shifter and...

Related articles

The Best Used Cars to Buy If You Live in a City
Living Living and driving in the city means you’re faced with parking constraints, narrow streets, and the constant stop and go of traffic. With all of that said when you’re ready to purchase a used vehicle these are all things...
The Best Used Cars to Buy If You Have a Tiny Parking Space
In In many cities parking spaces come at a premium, so you only want to purchase one small space. This small space will end up dictating what vehicle you purchase, so we’ve rounded up some great candidates. Must-haves Arm yourself...
Industry News for Automotive Techs: November 5 - November 11
Tesla buys Grohmann Engineering, Ferrari's future hybrids, next-gen Dodge Charger and Challenger, Nissan e-Power system, and YourMechanic recognition.