I noticed my car overheating when it started warming up this spring. Also, the fans do not kick on unless I turn on the A/C. Also the "low coolant" light is on. Are these issues related? I don't know if the problems started around the same time. What exactly controls the fans when the engine is hot? Is it only up to the coolant temperature sensor that sends a signal to a switch? I had the same issue with my 91 Camaro and replacing the coolant temp sensor did not resolve it so I don't think its the case here. I tried swapping out relay's but only the #1, and #2. Should I have tried number 3 or is there a fan switch I need to replace?

I am guessing the low coolant sensor is only for telling you the level of coolant is low and is not directly related to my main concern...over heating since the coolant level is good.

 

how old is the coolant?

 

Just a few months. Even so, would that keep fans from
turning on?

 

A low coolant light should not keep the fans from coming on. What is the year monte you have and engine, etc?

 

2001 3400 v6 just hit the 130k mark on mileage. What else do you need? Sorry I'm a noob.

 

Are you sure the coolant level is ok? and does your coolant level go down at all from time to time?

The 3400 V6 is known to have LIM and Head gasket issues. Have either one of these gaskets been replaced before?

 

well my coolant goes down from time to time, but its nothing bad, and i have no leaks, but my fans and everything turn on

how hot is it where you live?

 

I do lose a bit, but thought it may be because I think I have a small leak. I think those show their nasty head when you flush the system, which gets gunk out that was covering the hole. Or maybe it was due some evap or steam issue from the resevoir or something. I haven't seen any issues with oil, which leads me to believe its not a head gasket issue. Unless I am ill thinking there. I don't know what you mean by LIM though. Is there an easy way to test a fan switch( anyone know the location, on the engine between it and the rad?), the relay, or temp sensor? The shop wants 90 bucks to check it and not roll that price into repair so I am trying to save some money.

 

I would think it is the temp sensor you can have it tested at like Auto Zone for free it is like a 10 $ part if anything just change it at 130,000 it is due!! and a lot more likely than the relay to me

 

Does it matter if its after market or should I strive for the ac delco... if thats the brand from the dealer anymore?