Hi guys i had a quick question since im very new to civics, My 94 coupe takes a while to heat up to the right temperature, is this normal in hondas? If not what should i do? It runs great im just worried since this is my first car and i want it running perfect. Also when i start it up, the rpm's are at about 1500 for a little. then when it starts heating up it drops down to where it should be. Is this normal also?? Thank you your help is appreciated. If someone already posted this im sorry.

 

It typically takes about 3 miles of moderately fast driving to warm up. You might consider trying a new thermostat just as a general maintenance item, they're not expensive.

It is indeed designed to idle about 1500 when first started then slow down.

 

Thank you

 

As to the start-up RPM, that is programmed into the ECU. It is behaving exactly as designed. Part of the reason for this is that the engine's oil has drained back to the pan after the engine was last shut off. When the engine starts, the oil pump must suck oil from the pan and then pump it throughout the engine - especially to the cam and cam followers. If it started up at normal idle RPM, it would take slightly longer for the oil to be circulated to the moving parts, thus increasing wear. Another reason is to allow a bit of above-idle warm up before heading out.

It almost sounds like your thermostat is stuck partially open, allowing the water to circulate too fast, thus carrying heat away more quickly than designed. As mk378 said, a thermostat is cheap and is considered a wear item, so it looks like time for a new one.

 

thanks a lot guys, i will definitely get that done this weekend, i already memorized the DIY