Engine still getting hot after replacing thermostat and water pump

2011 CHEVROLET MALIBU
97,000 MILES • V6 • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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EDDIELANDDD
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So my dad replaced the thermostat and water pump with OEM parts. So when I drive the car temperature stays below half. But if I idle for a while the temperature will raise 2 ticks above half and the cooling fan Kicks on and goes back to normal. But this happens every time I drive. Does anyone have a thought to what’s wrong?
Jun 10, 2020 at 5:06 AM
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ASEMASTER6371
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Good morning,

It sounds like the coolant temperature sensor may not be sending the correct signal to the ECM for turning on the fan.

I would start by replacing the sensor and see if it comes on sooner. It should come on at 208 degrees.

What temp thermostat did you install?

Roy
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Jun 10, 2020 at 5:25 AM
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EDDIELANDDD
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Yes, that sensor was also changed my father got the parts from GM directly.
Jun 10, 2020 at 5:30 AM
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ASEMASTER6371
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Okay, what temperature thermostat was replaced?

Roy
Jun 10, 2020 at 5:35 AM
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EDDIELANDDD
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All parts are Ac Delco and the thermostat and housing was changed.
Jun 10, 2020 at 5:41 AM
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ASEMASTER6371
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Okay, I need the temperature of the thermostat. The reason I ask is if there was a lower temperature thermostat installed, it would explain the difference in the gauge reading on the dash. If there was a 195 degree installed, then there would be only a small movement until the fan came on.

If there was a 180 installed, then there will be more movement until the fan came on.

Roy
Jun 10, 2020 at 6:38 AM
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EDDIELANDDD
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Yes, the thermostat is a 195.
Jun 12, 2020 at 1:06 PM
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ASEMASTER6371
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Okay, make sure there is no air in the system.

If all that is good, it looks to be the gauge itself in the dash.

the thermostat will keep the engine temperature at 200 degrees and the fan will kick on at 208. there should be next to no fluctuation of the gauge.

To be honest, I do not think you have an issue at all that needs attention.


Roy
Jun 12, 2020 at 1:19 PM