2000 Chevy Cavalier Heating Problems

TAYTAY27

MEMBER
2000 CHEVROLET CAVALIER

Engine problem
2000 Chevy Cavalier Engine Size unknown Front Wheel Drive Automatic 180 miles

Hi, My Cavalier temp gauge goes all the way over to the 260 red zone after its warmed up. While driving, it goes back and fourth from 195 to 260. The fan is working and I had the Thermo replaced about 6months ago. The heat works fine, sometimes it may blow out cool air after driving for a while and then warms back up. I've been told many diffrent things, my coolant reservoir tank has been replaced while also being told my Head gaskets need to be replaced. Please infom me of your suggestion. Thanks

1 Reply

EZE

MEMBER
16 POSTS

To check if it is a leak in the head gasket:
+Check your oil, make sure it is the regular blackish color. If it is slimey and greenish then there could be a leak(if you use green coolant).
+Keep an eye on your radiator coolant level. If you need to fill it up often and it isn't leaking under your car this is also bad.
If both are happening then get a compression check to be sure. If one or more cylinders shows extra low, they are the ones where the gasket leaks.

Personally it sounds like the thermostat to me. It could have been installed wrong, and gotten chewed up right away. The temperature will bounce back and forth like that when a thermostat doesn't open and close correctly.