GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Thermostat Diagnosis Cold Engine Slow Warm Up

Tools Required

J 24731

Step

Action

Value(s)

Yes

No

The temperature stick is a pencil-like device that has a wax material containing chemicals which melt at a given temperature. Use the temperature sticks in order to determine a thermostat's operating temperature. Rub the following sticks on the thermostat housing:

    • The 87°C (188°F) J 24731
    • The 97°C (206°F) J 24731

The marks made by the sticks should melt when coolant temperatures reach the corresponding temperatures. These temperatures are the normal operating range of the thermostat.

1

  1. Relieve the pressure and remove the radiator cap. Refer to Cooling System Draining and Filling .
  2. Rub a 97°C (206°F) J 24731 .
  3. Warm up the engine at fast idle.
  4. Check for coolant flow before the mark begins to melt.

Is there coolant flow before the mark melts?

--

Go to Step 2

Go to Step 3

2

The problem is caused from something other than the thermostat. Refer to Engine Fails To Reach Normal Operating Temperature .

Does the engine still overheat?

--

--

System OK

3

  1. Replace the thermostat. Refer to Engine Coolant Thermostat Replacement .
  2. Check the system.

Is the engine still overheating?

--

--

System OK

Thermostat Diagnosis Overheat, Boiling Poor Heating

Tools Required

J 24731

Step

Action

Value(s)

Yes

No

The temperature stick is a pencil-like device that has a wax material containing chemicals which melt at a given temperature. Use the temperature sticks in order to determine a thermostat's operating temperature. Rub the following sticks on the thermostat housing:

    • The 87°C (188°F) J 24731
    • The 97°C (206°F) J 24731

1

  1. Relieve the pressure and remove the radiator cap. Refer to Cooling System Draining and Filling .
  2. Rub a 87°C (188°F) J 24731 .
  3. Warm up the engine at fast idle.
  4. Check for coolant flow before the mark begins to melt.

Is there coolant flow before the mark melts?

--

Go to Step 3

Go to Step 2

2

The problem is caused from something other than the thermostat. Refer to Engine Fails To Reach Normal Operating Temperature .

Does the engine warm up properly?

--

--

System OK

3

  1. Replace the thermostat. Refer to Engine Coolant Thermostat Replacement .
  2. Check the system.

Is the engine still overheating?

--

--

System OK