GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Engine Fails To Reach Normal Operating Temperature 3.6L (LY7)

Step

Action

Yes

No

1

  1. Ensure that the cooling system is full.
  2. Allow the engine to cool.
  3. Start the engine.
  4. Turn the air conditioning system OFF.
  5. Inspect the engine cooling fans.

Is the electric cooling fan on?

Go to Step 2

Go to Step 3

2

  1. Diagnose and repair the cooling fan system. Refer to Cooling Fan Always On .
  2. Verify the customer complaint.

Does the engine still fail to reach normal operating temperature?

Go to Step 3

System OK

3

Install the scan tool to the data link connector (DLC). Compare the scan tool coolant temperature reading to the instrument panel (I/P) cluster coolant temperature.

Is the I/P cluster coolant temperature close to the reading on the scan tool?

Go to Step 5

Go to Step 4

4

  1. Diagnose and repair the coolant temperature gage system.
  2. Verify the customer complaint.

Does the engine still fail to reach normal operating temperature?

Go to Step 5

System OK

5

Inspect the thermostat for proper operation. Refer to Thermostat Diagnosis .

Is the thermostat operating properly?

Go to Step 1

Go to Step 6

6

  1. Replace the thermostat. Refer to Engine Coolant Thermostat Replacement .
  2. Verify the customer complaint.

Does the engine still fail to reach normal operating temperature?

Go to Step 1

System OK