Temp Gauge Problem. 99 528i

[killcrap]

ive been driving a 528i for a little while, and ive noticed that after like 5 mins of driving the engine is warmed up, and the temp gauge is around 5/8 of the way to normal operating temperature. 20 mins later, its the same. i park for 6 hours and come back, and i drive for about 5 mins and the temp gauge is at half way(normal operating temperature) anyone know what my problem could be? this problem is off and on. thanks for any help. i dont think its the themostat since, i get heat out of the ducts just fine. i think it may be the cts.

[thejlevie]

A sticking thermostat could cause that. And replacing it would be what I'd do first in trying to solve this.

Once you have the stat out of the car (and a new one in hand) you can test it for proper operation. Suspend both stats in a pot of water and heat them over medium heat with stirring. A cooking thermometer will let you see at what temp the new stat opens and you can compare it with the old stat.