Why does my temp gauge fluctuate when i drive in town but stays level on the highway

Laura, check if the fan is working. Also check coolant levels.

Check the coolant level. Sometimes when the coolant level is low, it will cause gauge fluctuations like you suggest, since air is getting into the cooling system. When air is in the system, it causes the thermostat to open and close frequently resulting is wild temp gauge swings.

Sounds like your coolant level might be low. At highway speed you probably have enough coolant and with the air passing thru the radiator keeps the temp down, but at idle not so much. Or depending whether you have a belt drive or electric fan. Belt driven, could need a new belt.

I would check the vanes on the water pump and the inside of the radiator. Both can cause this.

Sounds Like A Problem With your thermostat. Good Luck

sounds like your fans are not comming on try to check to see if they are and relace sending unit for them

doesnt sound good! check coolant level.if low could be bad waterpump or headgasket

If the coolant level (antifreeze) level is low there may not be enough fluid in the system for the temperature sensor to register a proper reading ( think of it as holding an oral thermometer just outside of your mouth).

Insufficient fluid passing through the heater core (small fan that blows through a small heated radiator) may not be enough to produce heat.

However: At increased speeds the engine may be heating what little fluid there is to a point to supply heat to the heater core, and register on the temperature sensor.

the thermostst is most likly stuck in the open position letting the coolant flow freely through the engine and keep recuirculating not giving it a chance to stay in the engine block to warm up. i would replace the thermostat

make sure the antifreeze is full. if so, replace thermostat and refill