Cooling Cycle (LE5)

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2010 Pontiac G5 and 2010 Chevrolet Cobalt. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Coolant from the water pump is circulated through the water jackets in the cylinder block where the coolant absorbs the released heat.

The coolant also flows through the cylinder head gasket openings and into the cylinder head. The coolant flows through the water jackets surrounding the combustion chambers and valve seats where the coolant absorbs additional heat.

Coolant flows from the water pump into the radiator inlet port located on top of the radiator. From the radiator outlet, the coolant flows to the surge tank and to the thermostat assembly. The flow of coolant will either be stopped at the thermostat until the engine reaches normal operating temperature, or it will flow through the thermostat and back through the cooling system to the radiator where it will be cooled. At this point, the coolant flow cycle is completed.

Some coolant flow through the engine is directed through the heater core, then back to the engine. This provides the passenger compartment with heat and defrosting capability as the cooling system warms up.

Efficient operation of the cooling system requires proper functioning of all cooling system components.