That was one of the last “dumb” instrument clusters, the next generation minivan had processors in the cluster, able to display stabile gauges.
The trouble with displaying actual temperature is that while the vehicle is moving, the gauge shows 40% (195 F). Then while waiting at a traffic light (with the A/C off) the gauge will climb to 60 - 70% (210 - 220 F) before the electric radiator fan engages.
This results in a trip to the dealer. Customer complaint: “Engine runs hot” or “vehicle almost overheated”. Technicians’ response: “No problem found; engine operation normal”. Customer returns next week to complain again.
Then there is the mechanic who didn’t duplicate the problem but will replace the coolant temperature sensor on the first visit, the radiator on the second visit, the water pump on the third visit and so on.
This leads to bad customer surveys and “the dealer has no clue”, “call the manufacture”, “hire a lawyer”, “demand letter”, “lemon law” etc.
There must be a better way to display engine coolant temperature.