98 Grand Am Various Problems

Ok... I'm new to the forums and before you even read this I KNOW NOTHING ABOUT CARS! Computers are my game lol ...

First things first my car is a 98 grand am se 4cylinder auto trans

First mission I would like to change the spark plugs... don't have a clue how to do this....

Second I have an issue with the temp running up while idleing for short periods of time such as cranking my car forgetting my cigs in the house and running back in to get them, right back out and my car is close to the red... Although while driving it maintains a constant midway

Third issue, my car has recently started making a sort of thumping noise (unlike the noise a belt makes when it breaks) It's kind of like a thump/knock... anyway, it isn't doing this all the time just every now and then while ideling before pulling out of a parking space....

Fourth issue, most times when I put my car in reverse it pops very loudly once and then it's fine, it only does this when I shift into reverse....

Ok... Imma leave you poor ppl to ponder on my questions lol ... in all reality plz help if you can thanks

Welcome to AF.

To change the plugs you'll need to remove the top cover off the engine. Should be 4 bolts holding it on.
You will need a plug socket, an extension to reach down in the head, and some good plugs, I'd recomed AC Delco Iridiums. :grinyes:

With it running hot, I'd try a cooling system flush.
Thier are several chemical cleaners to do this, such as Prestone cooling syst. flush, and replace the thermostat.
The thermostat is located under the pass side of the engine, a realy PITA to get to with out a lift, your best bet is 18-24" jack stands and crawling under there.

Thumping noises could be anything from a suspension part to some engine problems, or even a motor-trans mount... this goes along with #4 when going into reverse.
You'd need to inspect and isolate the area its coming from.

Hope that helps.

Thinking about the thump, check the torque strut on the driver's side of the engine compartment. I know it's been a problem in the past with a few cars, and they do wear out. Easiest way to check it is to have someone put the car in gear while holding the brakes. Watch the transmission to see if it moves around. It shouldn't, and the part isn't all that expensive, just a real pain to get to.

I assume the 2.4 has an aluminum head....if so, make sure the motor is cold before you change the plugs...much less chance of stripping any threads.

Use the factory plugs, can't stress this enough...don't go and get the Bosch Platinum with 25 electrodes on it :grinno: .