05 Sport Trac external Temperature gage not reading correctly..

[Haggard616]

My external temperature gage located above head and in the middle of the vehicle, right next to the front dome light switches, that shares the digital panel with the "Compass", keeps misreading temperature.
When I start the vehicle, it seems to work (I think.)
It reads 36* F when I start the vehicle, it is winter time here in MI. Maybe it's a bit colder, but I'm not sure. Anyway, after a minute or two, the temperature reading begin climbing until it reaches around 97*F, and remains there. Very strange.
My airbag light just came on, and my seatbelt warning chime randomly chimes even though my seat belt is ON. I've only had this vehicle a week, and it seems there's a ghost in the machine. Turning signal sometimes stays solid while engaged, currently it's working correctly and flashing. The vehicle does have 145k miles, but it has been taken care of. No dash lights except this airbag light that just started this AM. I'm going to check the fuses and the yellow connector under the seat for that issue tonight.
I do need advise on the darn external temperature sensor though. I don't even know where to begin with that thing. Any help appreciated.

 

[koda2000]

Not sure if it's your problem, but on the earlier Explorers the sensor for the outside TEMP display is located in front of the A/C condenser, behind the grille on the driver's side. It's a black, rather large plastic bullet shaped thing. If it's the same on the '05, perhaps it's come loose and sensing the radiator temperature, or not working properly.

 

[swshawaii]

Regarding your instrument panel gauges, apparently instrument cluster issues are fairly common on 2004-05 ST's that have digital odometers. Do a search, there are quite a few threads on various forums reporting various intermittent issues. For me, I'm crossing my fingers since I just recently had the clear bezel off to clean out the dust and bugs inside. What a PITA, hope I never have to remove it again..

04 -05 Ford Explorer Sport Trac Instrument Cluster Repair

 

[Haggard616]

Thanks fellas. I'll check for that temp sensor.. that would make sense if it was reading off of the radiator, especially if it's actually in contact with it.
I hope my instrument panel isn't on the fritz. It sounds like a PITA.

 

[swshawaii]

Sorry, no intention of discouraging you. I tend to exaggerate the difficulty of repairs I'm doing for the first time. Removing the gauge cluster is NOT that difficult, it just takes time in very tight spaces. LOTS of 7mm screws, this is the kind of job one should take pics before taking apart. To me there's nothing worse than having left over screw(s) after everything's buttoned up. Hope koda's right about the temp sensor just being loose. Seems fairly common for the display to go out, but haven't read about fast changing or fluctuating temps on the display. GL