A thermostat stuck in the open position could keep an engine from reaching operating temperature, the interior heater would also not blow hot air. This can happen when using hard water ( water with a lot of minerals in it ) mixed with antifreeze.
An engine might sound like a diesel at operating temperature if the engine was a diesel or if there was an issue with the manifold. Sometimes gases escaping the manifold cover could cause the engine to sound different.
A defective thermostat can cause the engine to overheat. It can also cause the engine to not reach full operating temperature if the thermostat is stuck open. It is possible this could set the check engine light.
Or, if everything else is operating properly, it could be the thermostat or a blocked radiator, but I'd focus on the thermostat first. Be certain that the engine is at normal operating temperature when looking to see if coolant is circulating. A properly operating thermostat will prevent the circulation of coolant while engine temperatures are below operating temperature.
Any Auto Parts store can tell you the correct temperature thermostat for your Impala. Probably it requires a 195 degree thermostat. One thing for sure is no thermostat is not what you want. Running without a thermostat, will cause the engine to not reach full operating temperature. The engine will not perform to peak efficiency at below normal operating temperature. Normally that is around 220-230 Degrees. Your engine is computer controlled and the computer bases fuel/air mixture and timing on the engine temperature. Install the correct thermostat.
You need to check the radiator and be sure it is full. It can be empty and the overflow tank full. If it is full then check and be sure the radiator cooling is working when the engine is at operating temperature.
Most likely, the temperature gauge's connection is loose. It is usually on the thermostat. An inoperative temperature gauge will cause most check engine lights to come on.
Could be due to the fact that cooling fan is not working and excessive temperature is causing pressure rise.
Only when cold? Condensation burning off Normal condition When at normal operating temperature - could be a leaking head gasket Run engine to normal operating temperature - remove engine oil dipstick and let a drop fall on hot engine part - oil will smoke coolant will sizzle
Sounds like it could be a bad thermostat - not closing to allow engine to heat to normal operating temperature
This depends on the vehicle. If the thermostat is stuck open the engine won't get to the proper operating temperature which could trigger the MIL (check engine light).
The coolant sensor moniters the coolant temperature. A faulty thermostat could cause the engine to run cool.
Engine temperature sensor? Vacuum leak?