I have been wondering the same thing about my factory console temp gauge reading. I have used the temp probe from my multimeter to check the engine temp at various locations and they read as follows: the temp sending unit is 195-198, the thermostat housing around 190, and the upper radiator inlet is around 175. But the temp gauge reads in the middle of the gauge until driving around town it jumps up to the higher end of the operable range, which is the point where I took these readings. Any thoughts would be appreciated.