2000 Pontiac Sunfire Things are getting hot.

2000 PONTIAC SUNFIRE
97,000 MILES • 4 CYL • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
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IRISHSPRING
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I have a 2000 Sunfire SE and within the last month I've noticed it's running hotter than normal. Normally, without fail it runs exactly the same. If I have to sit at a light for a while it goes up ten to twenty more degrees than it normally does. I recently had a full service oil change to see if that would remedy the problem and it has not. What could it be and should I be concerned?
Jan 4, 2008 at 4:23 PM
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JSKELLY4693
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Usually Full Service oil changes don't include coolant flushes.
I would check the coolant, make sure it's full, that it's the right color (should be a bright yellow /green, maybe reddish if it's still factory coolant. If it's discolored, looks brown, like the color or rust, then flush the system),make sure it's still good (you can purchase a tester from your local auto parts store for under $5.00.

If you notice it's low, this might be a good indication that you may have a leak. Make sure you check all your hoses for sings of bubbling, cracks, or other problems.

That'd be the first thing I would check. If the coolant is full, and test fine, then I would change the thermostat.

For changing the thermostat or doing a coolant flush, you may need to get a repair book from your local auto parts .. or look down below, you will see a nice handy link for Pontiac Sunfire Repair manuals! It all depends on your level of expertise with engines.

Thermostats are usually pretty cheat, and are pretty easy to change.
Jan 13, 2008 at 12:36 AM