I have a 2001 Chevy Cavalier. The engine is starting to overheat when in traffic?

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Robster01

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I have a 2001 Chevy Cavalier. The engine is starting to overheat when it is in traffic. The A/C compressor sounds like it is kicking on and off a lot. All the fluid levels are good. Should I just change the thermostat, or charge the A/C, suggestions?
 
I would check your fan. Start it up& let it run in the drive way if you turn on the air it should warm up quicker. your fan should kick on by 225. If not the realy for the fan could be bad,, it could be a loose wire. That is where i would start
 
I agree with the person that said that your fans probably aren't kicking in. Let the car run for a bit and then check them. If they're running fine and you have high mileage, a new thermostat for that car only costs about $10 and is easy to replace. Always the cheaper route. If the fans AREN'T working then check their respective fuses or relays then continuity and amperage draw at the fan motor.
 
loosen or old belt dirty radiator not thermostat that would over heat in a few minutes of driving it most likley a dirty radiator maybe fans going bad type into search box

how to check over heating car

wil get you a list of things to check
 
You should check to make sure the first fan is kicking on...the second fan is for when you turn on the a/c. The first fan (drivers side?) should kick on when engine temps reach around 190-200....if not, check for a bad fuse, sensor, relay or bad fan motor or wiring/bad ground issues. Both fans should be running when the a/c is turned on. Also, make sure the lower bumper air deflector is not broken or missing which can alter the way the air is drawn through the radiator. And perhaps have the cooling system flushed if all else looks ok...the radiator might be clogged up with gunk over time after 8 years. Changing the t/stat would help also if it is staying closed or only partially open....you can tell by feeling the upper radiator hose when the engine is warmed up and see if it feels hot....if not, change the T/stat.
The a/c is suppose to cycle on and off periodically....you might still have it checked for leaks and proper pressures if it seems to be doing so more rapidly.
 
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