Temperature Gauge Fluctuating

[Turnbulls]

Help!

We have just bought our 2007 Grand Voyager 2.8 crd, driven to the south east of France with no problems but now the temperature gauge is fluctuating and the car goes in limp mode (I think!).

It doesn't cut out but judders a bit when the temperature goes up.

The gauge goes up to the top and dings, then straight down to a third, then up again and so on. It's pretty much all the time, we can drive for about 5 minutes with it being ok but then it will start the fluctuations again.

I don't think there is a problem with the temperature of the engine as is does it first thing in the morning.

It has been recently serviced (this month), the fan belt replaced and mot'd in July.

We are in a tiny village in France with limited French car vocabulary and the local garage looks like a one mechanic set up.

Any help would be gratefully received.

Many thanks

[macuniyanukukuk]

Could be the thermostat or temperature sensor

[Turnbulls]

That's what I thought, do you know if it is an easy fix?

[macuniyanukukuk]

I have a petrol. Very easy on that. On a diesel I heard it's a pain. Good luck and keep us posted.

[Turnbulls]

Thanks! Mine a diesel ...

[gordy]

Initially spells there's not enough coolant in the engine. Or air lock.

[Turnbulls]

The European AA man came and fixed it! The sensor had come loose, phew. Thank you for the advice