For a proper pre-trip inspection, what should the water temperature gauge indicate?

During a pre-trip inspection, it is crucial for the water temperature gauge to indicate that the temperature is starting to rise. This signifies that the engine and cooling system are functioning properly as the vehicle is warming up. A rising temperature is normal when the engine is running because it indicates that the coolant is circulating and absorbing heat from the engine.

It's important to monitor this gauge because if the temperature remains too low for an extended period, it could indicate a problem with the thermostat or a coolant issue. Conversely, if it spikes rapidly, this could be a sign of overheating, which could lead to serious engine damage. Thus, observing the gauge starting to rise within a normal range confirms that the engine is operating as intended during the pre-trip process.