Over Heating...

[gvsgrewal]

I have a 2002 Grand Prix GT with 3.8L engine. Is it normal for grand prix to heat up till the red shaded area of the temperature guage, in traffic stop and go during 100F temprature.
My car was also showing "TEMP" on the dashboard. I had to turn off the AC to make it cool down a bit.

[BNaylor]

No it is not. You are in an engine overheating condition especially if the TEMP light is on. Check your coolant level and cooling fans to see if they are both turning on.

[gvsgrewal]

Originally Posted by bnaylor

No it is not. You are in an engine overheating condition especially if the TEMP light is on. Check your coolant level and cooling fans to see if they are both turning on.

Thanks for the information. I checked the cooland level in the tank--that seems to be fine. How do I check if the fans are running.

[BNaylor]

The best way to check coolant level is at the radiator not the coolant reservoir. Remove radiator cap when engine is cooled down and then check level.

For fans lift the hood. You should eventually hear and see them running based on your temperature or as it rises. Carefully put your hand between each of the fans (two) and the engine in that open area. You will feel airflow.

If that is OK, then check and/or replace the thermostat to start.

[wlkjr]

I would have to advise against sticking your hands in that area. You should be able to see the fans turning without endangerment. It's too easy to touch something hot and make a false move and maybe getting your hands too close to a moving fan.
Are the 2002's plagued by the intake gasket problem?

[BNaylor]

Originally Posted by wlkjr

I would have to advise against sticking your hands in that area. You should be able to see the fans turning without endangerment. It's too easy to touch something hot and make a false move and maybe getting your hands too close to a moving fan.
Are the 2002's plagued by the intake gasket problem?

I disagree. Due to the fan(s) being recessed it is difficult to see the fans turning. There is a 5 - 6 inch barrier provided by the fan shroud before your hands will ever get near the blades. From the front of the vehicle and from the upper radiator support bar you can safely feel for airflow with one hand without getting hurt. Take a look and you'll see. Lets not make unfounded conclusions. But I agree safety is always important.

On the intake gaskets possible but I would not be the bearer of bad news without additional troubleshooting. The 2002 has the improved plenum unlike your '97.

[mike561]

dont mean to butt in or anything but since were on the topic of radiator and cooling fans, why do the newer cars now have electric fans? my old chevy caprice radiator fan was spun by one of the engine belts. just wondering...

[wlkjr]

Originally Posted by mike561

dont mean to butt in or anything but since were on the topic of radiator and cooling fans, why do the newer cars now have electric fans? my old chevy caprice radiator fan was spun by one of the engine belts. just wondering...

Not enough room for the fan on the front of the engine since it is turned sideways. Besides, an electric fan does not rob horsepower and economy is foremost with the EPA.

[regalfriend]

A quick and easy way to check if fans turn on os to take a strip of paper, 1 inch wide and approx 14 inches long and drop it down in front of the fan shroud and see if it blows. If it does, use caution that it does not cause a fire if it blows to the engine

[mike561]

Originally Posted by wlkjr

Not enough room for the fan on the front of the engine since it is turned sideways. Besides, an electric fan does not rob horsepower and economy is foremost with the EPA.

that actually does make alot of sense now lol