What would cause an 2000 Oldsmobile Intrigue to overheat after the thermostat water pump and radiator have been replaced?

Answer 1

Answer

A lot of things (assuming you have the proper coolant level and all good parts): cracked head, cracked block, warped head, bad head gasket, etc. Alternatively, you could have received a defective replacement part (unlikely), or the wrong temperature thermostat. You can test the thermostat in a pot on the stove to measure when it opens and verify with original specs (probably 180� or so). Is the overheating for real, or is the gauge simply measuring a bit high? Did your mechanic replace the sending unit along with the new parts (common in a repair after overheating)? The new unit may be off 10� or so, which may scare you a little, but be OK for the car. Too many possibilities to narrow down over the web, I'd take it to a dealer.

-- Also possible that there are air bubbles locked in the system. The modern GM V6s are notably difficult to burp. I agree with the first person that you should take it to a service professional to be sure.

Answer

Cooling fan not working or thermal switch defective. Air trapped in cooling system.

Ther is one or two plastic 90 degree elbows that often crack and leak water. Quite inexpensive, they are by water pump and tensioner asssembly. Often crack and leak water and hard to see since the water evaporates.