Drives good until the temperature hand rises and goes into the red?

Tiny
HOSEY
  • MEMBER
  • 2004 CHEVROLET IMPALA
  • 6 CYL
  • FWD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 190,000 MILES
My car drives good until the temperature hand rises and goes into the red and displays that's running hot when it is not. After it stays in the red for a minute the car cuts off and I have to wait until the hand goes back down and then it will drive fine until the temperature hand goes back up and display hot temp.
Sunday, August 22nd, 2010 AT 7:42 PM

1 Reply

Tiny
SQM
  • MECHANIC
  • 6,383 POSTS
Hello,

It sound like you might have an issue with the coolant temperature sensor.
The faulty temperature sensor providing incorrect info and when the vehicle thinks the engine it "too hot" it shuts down to prevent further damage to the engine.

The coolant temperature sensor is located on left front intake manifold.
It can be changed out using simple hand tools.
Just remember to work on it when the engine is cool.

You might find these articles helpful:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-a-coolant-temperature-sensor-works
https://www.2carpros.com/articles/symptoms-of-a-bad-coolant-temperature-sensor
https://www.2carpros.com/articles/coolant-temperature-sensor-cts-replacement

I have attached the coolant temperature sensor replacement procedure for your reference.

Please let me know of any questions.

Thank you.
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Friday, August 6th, 2021 AT 9:17 PM

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