2020 2.3 engine slow to warm up

[michael loibl]

So I’ve only had the new addition for a few weeks. The past couple of 35 degree mornings caused me to notice how slow the truck warms up. 2 minute idle, then a 6 minute 3 mile drive, and still just one bar lit up on gauge. Heat is barely warm at this point.

I popped the hood and felt both radiator hoses, both cool, so I assume thermostat is operating properly. Coolant levels are full.

It seems that 4 bars is full operating temperature, based on previous longer drives. Anyone else notice this on their 2.3?

 

[1depd]

Mine is parked in an attached garage overnight so it is already at 30-40 during the cold months. It seems to be warm enough within a couple miles, definitely before I hit 6 miles. When I get off work I normally start the engine about 5-10 minutes before I get off on the hot and cold days and it is normally at temp by the time I get off. With that said, I have noticed I keep the heated seats and steering wheel on longer in the Explorer than my Fusion so may it takes a bit longer to warm up and I just don't really notice it. I have temperature issues and extreme variations cause issues, so pre-starting the car is a must.