Questions and Answers

Pontiac Grand Am Too Cold Q. I own a 1990 Pontiac Grand Am with a 2.5 liter, automatic with 130,000 miles. The problem is the car will not come up to temperature. have replaced thermostat on several occasions (AC Delco), fan is working properly, coolant level is fine. Only time car will come up to temperature is when idling in traffic for extended periods. The temperature rises and then there is heat.

Currently have a 190° thermostat in it. Any suggestions what could be the problem? Also the temperature switch inside car works properly!

A. You may have a blockage in the system. If car is not overheating...check the heater hoses with your hand. Make sure one is hot and the other warm. If not, one of the nipples that the hose connects to may be partially clogged with sediment.

The water pump impeller could also be rotted and not circulating the coolant properly. The heater core could also be clogged. How's the airflow out of vents? The evaporater coil may have leaves and dirt blocking it as well. You can clean this by removing the blower motor and vaccuming it out as best as you can.