Got a sti5 type r, and the temp gauge i have reads at around 80-90 degrees most of the time. Sometimes does go up to 100 degree (usually when going for a spirited drive). Is this ok or should i continue worrying???

 

80-90 is spot on, this is what most makes of car run at and as long as it don't stay at 100 or go over after your "spirited" drive and drops back to normal then I'd say it'll be fine. Keep a good eye on it and keep an eye on water level. BUT only check level when cold!!! Or you'll get burnt!!

 

Is the gauge accurate, though?

 

Most vehicles have a thermostat of around 78-88 opening temp so if it didn't at least reach that it would not circulate the water so 80-90 is fine its like above if it starts rising and doesn't fall when the fan kicks in then you have a problem.
I've seen mine reach 97-99 after a GOOD DRIVE but almost instantly falls back down to around 85-87 when normally driven or traffic slows the fun down

 

yes, those temps are perfectly normal. The fan kicks in at 96-97 according to my PSi3

JohnD

 

Thanks guys, got worried thinking the gaskets were on their way out....not a good start to owning my dream scooby lol. Phew.