Temperature gauge says running hot but not overheating

2003 CHEVROLET IMPALA
175,600 MILES • 3.8L • V6 • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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RYANGETTYS78
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  • 2 POSTS
After about 30 minutes of driving the temperature gauge will go halfway and then a little bit higher but never higher than one notch above halfway. Only the driver side cooling fan comes on the passenger side fan never comes on. I don't know what to do I am stuck. can anyone help? the defrost heat is very hot so there are no air pockets I don't see any leaks. is there anyone that can help?
Mar 25, 2021 at 12:54 PM
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MHPAUTOS
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 31,937 POSTS
It sounds as if you may have a partial blockage in the radiator. I would start with a core clean and also check the thermostat. a core clean will need to be done by a radiator specialist as this requires the radiator tanks to be removed. you can try a basic flush your self and see if this helps. I have added some links below that will assist you with this job.

Mark (mhpautos)

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/engine-overheating-or-running-hot
https://www.2carpros.com/articles/replace-thermostat
https://www.2carpros.com/articles/engine-cooling-system
Mar 26, 2021 at 9:30 PM
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RYANGETTYS78
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Would a bad thermostat or radiator blockage cause the number 2 passenger side fan to not come on?
Mar 26, 2021 at 9:32 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,240 POSTS
Hi,

I've noticed we haven't heard from you for a few days. Has any progress been made? We are interested in knowing.

Take care,
Joe
Mar 29, 2021 at 12:35 PM
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MHPAUTOS
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 31,937 POSTS
The thermostat only controls the coolant temperature along with the radiator pressure cap. The radiator is for cooling the engine coolant the fans draw air through the radiator core and this causes the heat transfer from the radiator to the atmosphere the cycle is continued as the water pump recirculates the coolant through the engine into the radiator. The electric fans are operated by a thermo sensor for additional cooling and the A/C fan is automatically activated when the A/C is turned on.
Mar 29, 2021 at 1:01 PM
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