What should the water temperature gauge do when you start the vehicle?

The temperature gauge will more than likely not move until the vehicle starts to warm up. When you start the vehicle, the engine is cold and the coolant is not circulating. As the engine warms up, the coolant starts to circulate and the water temperature gauge will rise. It may take a few minutes for the water temperature gauge to reach its normal operating temperature. If the water temperature gauge rises immediately, it could be a sign of a problem with the engine cooling system, such as a stuck thermostat or a faulty water pump.