AboutTodd Puccio Expertise General auto repair,electical issues,driveability issues,anti-lock brakes,SIR systems,HVAC,engine performance,Gm spacific. I have worked at my current dealseship since the 1990 model year anything much older than that I have limited exposure to. I do not have very much transmission experience so those question you may want to ask of another expert. When you send me a question let me know the exact make/model/engine and year for the car or suv you have it makes it easier to answer the questions that way.
Experience Experience in the area:I have been employed by the same Gm dealer for 18 years and and a ASE master technician. I work at a Pontiac and GMC truck store. Served a a lead technician when dealership was on a team system.
I just recently moved to a Buick,Hummer,Saab Store when my franschise was purchased by this dealership.
Organazations: ASE master techncian
Education/Credentials:High school diploma,2 year vocational school degree
2 year college degree. Associates degree in applied scineces (auto technology)Awards and Honors: GMC master techncian
Expert: Todd Puccio Date: 7/15/2008 Subject: temp gauge reads hot
Question Hi Todd, I have a 2001 Pontiac Sunfire 4cyl. 2.2 engine. The temp gauge is pinned on hot and check gauges light comes on. I had it to the mechanic and it is not the head gasket. I have replaced the thermostat, the water pump, and even had a new radiator put it and it still does the same thing. What else is left? should I look at the coolant sensor and maybe the catalytic converter? This is driving me crazy! The car runs fantastic even when it is pinned on hot. Thank You
Answer Hi Judy:
Is the car indded running hot? Or is just the gauge off? Lets start there. If it indeed is running hot I'd take a look at the electric cooling fan make sure that is working properly. If so then I would look at posssably a air flow issue between the radiator and the condenser if the car is equipped with A/C? if that is okay then I would look long and hard at a possable head gasket issue. These engines are noted for that. There is a chemical that can be put into the antifreeze and if ther is exhaust gases in the coolant "from a head gasket leak" the chemical will chnage colors and let you know if there is indeed a leak. Good luck :)
