Hi, running an XE with a Polo rad and fan switch. I have had the engine running at 95 degrees without the fan kicking in. Any idea what temp it should start at?

Mine kicks in at 92

I think mine is about the same.

The key test is take for a run then leave it running at idle for 20 minutes if it can do this without boil then you are OK

Lot of modern cars the fan dosen't switch on to about 102c (about 15+ degrees below the coolants boiling point) and switches back out about 95c

Your fan switches on radiator temperature not engine temperature which will be much hotter. not sure what temperature the thermostat is in your engine but many modern engines have a thermostat that only starts to open at 92c.

[Edited on 23/4/08 by britishtrident]

Have a look at the thermoswitch, it may have the operating temperatures on the body .possibly 2 temperatures for on and off

don't panic, if it doesn't boil then don't worry.

As britishtrident says its not clear cut.

mine only kicks in (vauxhall XE on polo rad) when stationary, in heavy traffic, for 10 to 15 mins when already hot.

In fact in 1000 miles of driving its only come on once.

It will let you know by throwing water out if its too hot.

I have run mine (at end of a race) at 110 deg on the grasser with no ill effect.