Running too cold in the summer.

[Sqrly]

Apparently I've good luck with trucks.

It got to 92 outside a few days ago and as I was driving down the freeway the check engine light comes on. I check the gauges and it's running too cold!

Sure enough, I checked the DTC when I got home and the coolant temperature is too low. I had already noticed the unstable temp on the guage so I ordered a thermostat (assembly). That looks like it's going to be fun to change.

I had the same issue with my last truck. The thermostat wouldn't fully close and the heater wouldn't work in the winter unless we blocked of the radiator.

While others are overheating come summer, my vehicles run too cold!

 

[Mooseman]

Yep. It's a common problem. Don't run it too much like this as you could kill your cat as it's probably running rich.

Another thing to consider replacing at the same time is the temp sensor which is just above the thermostat because of the difficulty to get to it and ensure it's working correctly.

 

[Sqrly]

Yep. It's a common problem. Don't run it too much like this as you could kill your cat as it's probably running rich.

Another thing to consider replacing at the same time is the temp sensor which is just above the thermostat because of the difficulty to get to it and ensure it's working correctly.

Thanks for the advice, I'm going to follow it.

If you remember, my vehicle is always trying to run rich hence the negative fuel trims.

This might be contributing that and I didn't notice until this particular item got worse.

The issue is intermittant and I can see the guage drop when it happens.

It just passed smog here in CA, only 2 days after I cleared the DTC for the low coolant temp, so overall it's doing ok.

 

[Sqrly]

Seems I ran out of good luck

Changing the thermostat assembly was not difficult for me however, when I went to change the sensor I discovered a problem with the new one.



It is an OEM part though purchased from Amazon. They are replacing it but now I'll have to do 90% of the job over and try to save the $50 in coolant I just put in

 

[Mooseman]

It is an OEM part though purchased from Amazon.

I'll bet you got a CCC clone from scAmazon. I have become leery of buying any OEM parts from there.

 

[Sqrly]

I'll bet you got a CCC clone from scAmazon. I have become leery of buying any OEM parts from there.

That must be the case because the second one is exactly the same. I returned it again, this time for a refund.

On top of that, after leaving a review with the photo above and advising others to inspect the part closely before use, they removed my review and are now blocking me from reviewing the product.


Here's the link to the part so others can avoid buying it.

Amazon.com: ACDelco GM Original Equipment 213-963 Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor : Automotive

Buy ACDelco GM Original Equipment 213-963 Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor: Coolant Temperature - Amazon.com ✓ FREE DELIVERY possible on eligible purchases

www.amazon.com

 

[Mooseman]

I know I've been blocked from reviewing products I returned but having it removed? That's why I usually put my review on before starting the return. If that's what you did, then maybe because you returned it twice may have triggered something. Or maybe it is a real ACDelco but are pandemic era stock or a new supplier?

That weird washer/gasket looks kinda familiar but it's been a very long time since I've replaced one.