Over the weekend, I drove with a friend, and noticed the temperature gauge was climbing quite a bit. At the 220 mark, I heard the radiator fans click on, then a few seconds later go out. Soon, the gauge reached the first orange dial above 220, and I immediately pulled over and shut off the car before it went any higher. No smoke or radiator cap popping, and I let the car cool down before attempting another drive.
I attempted to limp it to my mechanics shop, but when the gauge reached 220, I would be looking for a safe place to pull off and manage to shut off my car just before or right at the first orange dial. After a few repeats, I realized it was futile and had a tow truck bring it to the shop. Taking it off the flatbed, the car started up and drove fine, no smoke or radiator cap popping, no funny noises or leaks. The reservoir still had plenty of coolant in it.
Do you all think there is possible engine damage or did I dodge a bullet here? I had the otterstat and hoses replaced recently. What do you all think the ultimate problem could be? Thank you all!