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Thermostat Diagnosis

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2008 Pontiac G5 and 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
Step Action Values Yes No
1
  1. Pressure test the cooling system and the cap for leaks.
  2. Repair any leaks before proceeding. These engines use a 82°C (180°F) thermostat. The ambient temperatures should be within the specified range given.
  3. Set the HVAC controls in the OFF position.
  4. Run the cold engine at idle (68-70°F) for 15-20 minutes before checking the engine temperature.
  5. Check the engine coolant temperature at idle with the Scan Tool  .
Is the engine coolant temperature (ECT) between 85-96°C (185-205°F)?		 13-38°C (55-100°F) System OK Go to Step 2 
2 Is the ECT below 85°C (185°F)? - Go to Step 3  Go to Step 4 
3 The thermostat is opening early, or the thermostat seal is leaking.
Replace the thermostat and the thermostat seal. Refer to Engine Coolant Thermostat Replacement (LE5)  or Engine Coolant Thermostat Replacement (L61)  or Engine Coolant Thermostat Replacement (LNF) .
Is the repair complete?		 - System OK -
4 Is the ECT over 96°C (205°F)? - Go to Step 5  -
5 Is the radiator inlet hot? - Go to Step 6  Go to Step 7 
6
  1. Turn ON the heater.
  2. Check if hot air is coming from the heater outlets.
Is the air hot?		 - Go to Step 11  Go to Step 12 
7 There may be air in the system.
  1. Add coolant to the surge tank if the coolant level is low. Refer to Cooling System Draining and Filling (GE 47716 Fill)  or Cooling System Draining and Filling (Static Fill LE5, L61)  or Cooling System Draining and Filling (Static Fill LNF) .
  2. Recheck the radiator inlet hose.

Is the inlet hose hot?		 - Go to Step 6  Go to Step 8 
8 Inspect for blockage in the following areas:
  • The cylinder head
  • The radiator
  • The radiator hoses

Is there a blockage?		 - Go to Step 9  Go to Step 10 
9
  1. Repair the blockage.
  2. Recheck the coolant temperature with the Scan Tool  .
Is the repair complete?		 - System OK -
10
  1. Replace the thermostat. Refer to Engine Coolant Thermostat Replacement (LE5)  or Engine Coolant Thermostat Replacement (L61)  or Engine Coolant Thermostat Replacement (LNF) .
  2. Recheck the coolant temperature with the Scan Tool  .
Is the repair complete?		 - System OK -
11 Inspect for blockage in the radiator.
Is there any blockage?		 - Go to Step 9  Go to Step 10 
12
  1. Accelerate the engine several times in order to remove any air from the system.
  2. Inspect for blockage in the heater circuit.
  3. Inspect for any pinched or buckled hoses.
Is there any blockage?		 - Go to Step 9  Go to Step 13 
13 Refer to Diagnostic Starting Point - Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning .
Is the repair complete?		 - System OK -
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