Yes It Can.
Bad thermostat
the ABS sensor is bad.
ecm is bad
throttle postioning sensor is bad
Yes a bad thermostat would cause overheating in any car. A thermostat regulates the temperature.
Looseness "Clunk" when steering
Yes - normally you will hear a "click" only when trying to start with a bad solenoid
Clogged radiator, bad water pump, stuck thermostat, non-functioning fan. and may I add lacking of fluids.
Bad head gasket? Bad thermostat? Defective radiator cap?
A bad thermostat can cause an overheat. A bad temp sensor can show an overheat when the temperature is normal.
Generally whenever a switch goes bad the only thing you can do is replace it.
Remove the starter and inspect the ring gear on the flywheel.