The Micra must be the only vehicle I've ever sat in that didn't have a coolant temperature gauge built in. Not even an indicator light to let you know the engine is still cold.
From reading threads on here looks like the easiest way to remedy this is with a ScanGauge or UltraGauge?
Easiest, yes. But not cheapest.
You could probably also install an actual aftermarket gauge.
Or a bluetooth OBD-II adapter and display it on your phone.
Obd adapter is cheapest. Pair it with an android head unit and you'd be golden. Look up ELM 327
Not the most convenient though if you have to use your phone as a display to check on when your car is warmed up every time you go for a drive. I ended up grabbing the entry level ScanGuageE.
The scan gauge is less expensive then a wideband A/F ratio gauge and has that function as well as many others
The ScanGaugeE also saves the "MAX" coolant temp value per session, which can be useful.
Also has a great "rolling bar graph" feature for your fuel consumption. Very good feedback for encouraging efficient driving practices.
I have one of those OBDII Bluetooth adapter. I haven't used it for a while because once I put the panel covering the OBDII port back I kinda forgot about it, but if I recall correctly, the app Torque Pro has a setting where, upon reaching a safe operating temp, a voice would let you know. Neat stuff. Where I live it's warm pretty much all year long, so it's not crucial for me.
just stumbled across this....probably worth paying a bit more for something more universal though.......
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Mini-Multifu...xXnuzx&vxp=mtr
huh...might be worth it!
http://www.ebay.com/itm/AUTOOL-X50-C...602419&vxp=mtr
I like the ScanGauge because it's short and can sit right on top of the steering column blocking minimal view of the instrument cluster. I already have a dashcam mounted, I didn't want a bunch of other stuff stuck to the windshield or mounted in highly visible spots.
Attachment 3352
ScangaugeE installed^