Questions and Answers

Saturn SL Constantly Overheats
Q. I have a 1997 Saturn SL, manual transmission and 153,000 miles on it. It began to over heat and therefore I replaced the water pump, thermostat, heater core and also flushed the system.

The radiator is less than 6 months old and still continues to heat up quicker than normal. Also, noticed that the water was not circulating properly through the engine. I am about at my end here with the diagnostics.

What would cause the circulation to stop aside from the components which I have already replaced?????? Keep in mind that I have also flushed the system. What are your thoughts?????

Thank you,
Lynette
Irving, TX

A. The water pump circulates the coolant through the engine if the thermostat is opening properly and the water pump is turning in the proper direction. Any chance someone put the serpentine belt on in the wrong configuration? You should also make sure the electric cooling fan is working. If there is still a problem you may need head gasket.