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2004 Chevrolet Impala

Question: Heat temperature flucuates

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onrak, 3.4L V6, Rochester, NY, November 27, 2009, 07:06
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I either get no heat, a little heat, or too much heat. The temp gauge will sometimes go in the red and suddenly return to normal. At times the temp gauge will go in the red and the engine will start to operate in the safe mode and then return to normal. The thermostat, water pump and intake gaskets have been replaced. No visible fluid leak or smell is present. Fluid level is fine. The repair shop is at a loss as to what is wrong. Could this be a heater core or head gasket issue, or something else?

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  • Answer #1

    Oakman December 03, 2009, 13:48
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    It sounds like a head gasket issue to me. I would recommend you have the cooing system in your 2004 Chevrolet Impala check for hydrocarbons. Hydrocarbons in the cooling system are an indication of combustion gases in the cooling system most commonly caused by failed head gaskets, other possibilities are a cracked cylinder head or engine block.

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    onrak, December 03, 2009, 15:41
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    You are absolutely correct; the heads were warped and gaskets shot. I was able to reduce repair bill from $3,000 to $600. Case being made for chronic heat problems.

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