C220 CDI Low Engine Temperature

[oxygenplasma]

I've recently purchased a 1999 C220 CDI and am surprised at how low the engine temperature runs. It generally sits at around 45-50 degrees on open roads reaching the low side of 60 at slower speeds. I've seen it go to 80 only once while driving through very heavy town traffic for a long time. Cabin temperature isn't great either even with the diesel burner boost. I've confirmed that the temperature display is reading correctly and the fan is not cutting in early.
I've seen other posts by owners of 320 CDI's discussing low engine temperatures. There was also a post by the owner of an unidentified car who replaced the thermostat and the temperature went higher and more stable but don't know if this was on a petrol MB.
I'm concerned that low temperature is not getting the oil to the right temperature for good lubrication. I generally do long miles (albeit on bad roads) and the economy is over 40 mpg which I reckon is excellent but have nothing to compare it with.

 

[television]

All you can do is to change the thermostat, you are right when you say that 40-50 is not good, its fine for the oil,but not for the running efficiency of fuel

Malcolm

 

[Bargain Bucket]

Changed mine on my E320 CDi and avaertage running temp went from 60 to 82 degrees. Old stat looked fine.

 

[Glenn Smith]

I agree it's the thermostat, and your'e right theoil will not be reaching the correct temperature, could cause condenastion build up emuslifiying the oil, I would change the oil or take the car on a good fast run.

 

[oxygenplasma]

Had it changed eventually. MB sent the wrong part first time. Old one looked perfect, not obviously open, but it runs nice and steady at 80 with the new one installed.