Common questions

Why is the radiator so hard to fill in a Pontiac Grand Am?

Why is the radiator so hard to fill in a Pontiac Grand Am?

Filling the radiator in your V-6 Pontiac Grand Am can be a challenge. The reason it is so difficult centers around the fact that the radiator is lower in the vehicle than some of the cooling system components. As a result, air pockets form in the water pump housing and thermostat housing.

What happens when you change the cap on a radiator?

If so, then replace the cap. Coolant goes into the reservoir tank as it expands. The radiator cap is released by the pressure and the coolant is sent toward the overflow tank. If you have a bad radiator cap, the coolant will get released too quickly and cause the reservoir to boil over.

Where is the water pump located on a Grand Am?

The water pump housing on the Grand Am V-6 engine is located on the left side of the engine as viewed from the passenger side of the engine compartment. The thermostat housing can be located by following the upper radiator hose to the point it attaches to the engine on the driver side of the engine compartment.

Can a leak in the coolant cap cause an overheated engine?

Leaky coolant or air in the cooling system can lead to an overheated engine. If you notice your engine getting too hot, don’t look under the hood unless you’ve turned the engine off. That way, the engine can remain cool as you check it out. If there is coolant fluid near the radiator cap, there could be damage to the pressure cap.

Filling the radiator in your V-6 Pontiac Grand Am can be a challenge. The reason it is so difficult centers around the fact that the radiator is lower in the vehicle than some of the cooling system components. As a result, air pockets form in the water pump housing and thermostat housing.

The water pump housing on the Grand Am V-6 engine is located on the left side of the engine as viewed from the passenger side of the engine compartment. The thermostat housing can be located by following the upper radiator hose to the point it attaches to the engine on the driver side of the engine compartment.

What to do when coolant comes out of radiator?

Start the engine, and close the bleeder screws when coolant comes out in a steady stream. Refill the coolant reservoir or radiator and repeat the process to ensure removal of all air.

Author Image
Ruth Doyle