2001 Buick Park Avenue Service Engine Soon - coolant temp l

2001 BUICK PARK AVENUE
115,000 MILES • 6 CYL • FWD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
HOOKEDONFISHING
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
Hi, the service engine soon light is on and i had AutoZone put their gizmo on to tell me what the code was. They said Coolant Temperature Low was the indication. Indeed, the temp used to hover in the 180s or higher but now it doesn't get much above 150. I opened the hood with the engine running and the electric radiator fans are on. Coolant level is fine. I haven't driven the car for a couple months, it had a bad front bearing, but this wasn't a problem until after leaving the garage with a new bearing. Any idea what it could be? I am suspecting that the computer controls the fans, and when it sensed the coolant temp not reaching setpoint, it locked the fans on to prevent overheating. Could this be as simple as a bad thermostat?

3/24/08 - Found the problem. Indeed the car is smarter than i gave credit for. When the computer sensed that the coolant temp never reached some setpoint, it decided that maybe the sensor was bad, and turned on the Service light and locked the cooling fans on to prevent overheating. I replaced the thermostat, reset the code, and it is running great, without the cooling fans (until they are needed)!
Mar 20, 2008 at 2:32 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
DENNYP
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 1,824 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Yes, the thermostat is the most common problem. Most people automatically replace the coolant temp sensor, but they rarely ever fail.
Mar 29, 2008 at 5:53 PM
Join 2CarPros for free, one of the most advanced car repair communities on the internet. From first-time drivers to seasoned mechanics, everyone is welcome to reply, share details, and get better answers. You can add a temporary image or video first; uploads are limited to 20 MB.
Ask a Free Question
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.