1992 Pontiac Grand am overheating - Engine Troubleshooting


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1992 Pontiac Grand am overheating

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novaguy28
New User

Sep 29, 2008, 11:58 AM

Post #1 of 3 (3544 views)

1992 Pontiac Grand am overheating	Sign In

1992
Pontiac Grand am
3.3 L
102,500

Bought this vehicle 10 months ago. Recently noticed that the car is getting extremely hot. The coolant in the reserve tank boils and flows out of the cap. The car cannot be driven more then a few miles before the engine temperature becomes severely high. I replaced the thermostat in hopes that that was the problem but the same thing continues to happen. Brought the car to a shop and the mechanic just informed me that he cant figure out what the problem is. He says the water pump is fine the thermostat is opening properly but that it continues to overheat. Then he informed me that they don't do engine work and I would have to take it to someone that did. I checked the oil and it looks normal and there hasn't been any smoke coming from the exhaust. Also when I turn the heat or defrost on it only blows cool air. Not a clue what it could be. Any help is greatly appreciated. Thank you all in advance.

Jeff Norfolk
Enthusiast
Jeff Norfolk profile image

Sep 29, 2008, 5:49 PM

Post #2 of 3 (3537 views)

Re: 1992 Pontiac Grand am overheating	Sign In

Sound like you may just have an air pocket in the cooling system. These cars are hard to get all the air out. There should be a air vent valve (similar to a brake bleeder screw) on or around the thermostat housing. Since the heater or defrost blows only cold air that is a good sign of an air pocket. An air pocket will cause it to over heat and boil over. Also you may check the radiator. Run it till it gets hot but don't let it over heat. Shut the car off then feel the radiator. If it is clogged it will be hot on one part and cold on another. Typically will clog on the bottom of the radiator so it will be cool on the bottom. You will need to be sure you have all the air out of the system before you check the radiator in this way because a air pocket can give a false failure if there is still air in it. Good Luck
Jeff

novaguy28
New User

Sep 30, 2008, 1:15 PM

Post #3 of 3 (3533 views)

Re: 1992 Pontiac Grand am overheating	Sign In

Certainly appreciate the advice. Taking the car in to the dealership tomorrow just for a diagnostic check and will bring up your points. I hope it is one of the problems you addressed and nothing major within the engine. Thanks again.

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