I ran my AC for the first time today and my ultra gauge gave me a pending code - p0126. Looked up code, coolant loss or bad thermostat. My temps are great (broke 190 today which is rare) and no coolant loss. I normally run about 185, and have only topped 200 once in 2 years.

I plan to put in a new t stat soon but would love to wait until this weekend. I am driving about 3 hours to Vermont, am I foolish to drive that far with this code? Much better work space for me in VT. I could fix it here but in my neighborhood someone will likely call the EPA or something...

Thanks for any input.

 

Okay, I'll try a different slant - any reason to NOT put in a genuine 180 t-stat? My temps are fine but I figure it shouldn't hurt. I'd like to order today.

 

No reason not to put one in. Vermont is a good place if you do have a break down, you're within a couple hours of 2 large rover parts suppliers

 

Thanks. I grew up next to Springfield but hope I don't have to bring it there. I prefer to use cityside when I need to pay for work but this sounds like it is easy enough. I will still likely screw up...

 

if you have a stock 190 stat, it is stuck open (you are running 185). that is a cause for the code. you are on the good stuck, though. stuck closed is the bad one.
besides that, coolant level, shorted sensor wiring are other causes.