Thermostat Diagnosis
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2007 Saturn Vue. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
Thermostat Diagnosis
| Step | Action | Yes | No |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pressure check the cooling system and the cap for leaks. Repair any leaks before proceeding with the diagnosis. Four cylinder engines use an 82°C (185°F) thermostat. Six cylinder engines use a 91°C (195°F) thermostat. Ambient temperatures should be between 13-38°C (55-100°F). Place the HVAC controls in the OFF position. Run a cold engine at idle 20-21°C (68-70°F) for 15-20 minutes before checking the engine temperature. Is the repair complete? |
Go to Step 2 | - |
| 2 | Verify the engine coolant temperature with a Scan Tool
at idle. See Special Tools . Is the engine temperature below 85°C (185°F)? |
Go to Step 5 | Go to Step 3 |
| 3 | Verify the engine coolant temperature with a Scan Tool
at idle. See Special Tools . Is the engine coolant temperature between 85-96°C (185-205°F)? |
System OK | Go to Step 4 |
| 4 | Verify the engine coolant temperature with a Scan Tool
at idle. See Special Tools . Is the engine coolant temperature over 96°C (205°F)? |
Go to Step 7 | - |
| 5 | Test the thermostat for the following conditions:
Are either of these conditions present? |
Go to Step 6 | System OK |
| 6 | Replace the thermostat. Refer to Thermostat Replacement (2.2L (L61)) or Thermostat Replacement (2.4L (LAT)) or Thermostat Replacement (3.5L (L66)) . Is the repair complete? |
System OK | - |
| 7 | Is the radiator inlet hot? | Go to Step 8 | Go to Step 14 |
| 8 |
|
Go to Step 9 | Go to Step 12 |
| 9 | Inspect for blockage in the radiator. Did you find any blockage? |
Go to Step 10 | Go to Step 11 |
| 10 |
|
System OK | - |
| 11 |
|
System OK | - |
| 12 |
|
Go to Step 13 | Go to Heating Performance Diagnostic |
| 13 |
|
System OK | - |
| 14 | Air may be in the system.
Is the hose hot? |
Go to Step 8 | Go to Step 15 |
| 15 | Inspect for blockage in the following locations:
Did you find any blockage? |
Go to Step 16 | Go to Step 17 |
| 16 |
|
System OK | - |
| 17 |
|
System OK | - |