Previous Questions

Mike asked: Hello, I had to get towed back from Ellensburg WA yesterday (Sunday), because my car was overheating. No actual coolant was lost, no smell of coolant inside vehicle, no steam from engine or on window(s). No oil or coolant "dummy lights" came on, only "check gages" light. Heater blowing cold air. Even after letting car cool for 45 minutes, immediate over heating within 30 seconds. I am convinced it is the thermostat, but am not any where near knowledgeable in auto-mechanics to say for sure. I want to find the location of the thermostat first, and probably even replace it myself, if it's not to complicated with basic tools in an apartment complex. I am asking for your advice here, and need to know what you folks would charge (roughly) to do this job, and also, how would I get the car to you? Do you have a towing service for these situations? I sure could use some good advice here, and your company is highly recommended! Thank you for any reply! :)

The Auto Tech: Hi Mike, There are two possible engines for your Cavalier; a 2.2L or a 2.4L. On the 2.2 the thermostat is located inside a housing at the point where the lower radiator hose attaches to the engine. The most difficult part of the job is getting the cooling system properly filled and bled after replacing the thermostat. It's always a very time consuming process with low-mounted thermostats. The thermostat in the 2.4 engine is a nightmare to change. It's located in a tube that is below the exhaust manifold. The exhaust manifold heat shield must be removed to access the housing bolts by extending a socket around the manifold. If you want to tackle that one yourself you ought to consider getting a shop manual so you can follow the directions. Again, the proper filling and bleeding of the system is still a challenge. Another suggestion -- use an original factory thermostat only. This is a big enough job that youd deeply regret having to re-do the task if you try to save some money on cheap aftermarket parts!

Speaking of cost... I don't generally try to guesstimate without personally looking at the vehicle. With modern cars there are simply too many variables to try and create a sight-unseen quote. Figure somewhere between $120 - $240 depending upon which engine and whatever else might be in the way. Don't quote me on these numbers because as I said, this can all go out the window once we look at the car.

I hope this has helped. Let me know how it goes, ok?

Beth asked: I am looking for some advice. My 2001 Tahoe LT is in desperate need of tires. (The local tire store) cannot replace the tires with the same size that is on it right now. The previous owner of the Tahoe changed out the rims and put on larger 265/75/16 tires. The recommended tire is a 245/75/16. The larger tire exceeds the 3% difference over manufacturer's recommendation (the tire store) is allowed to work with. However, the smaller tire will fit on the custom rim, but is at the limit. I'd like to put the Michelins on my truck, but I'm afraid the smaller tire might look silly on those rims. I plan on driving this truck for a long time. I'm now wondering if I should find original rims and put the recommended size tire back on the truck. I trust your opinion! I have been so pleased with the work you've done on our cars. Thanks, Beth

The Auto Tech: Hi Beth, This is a darned good question, but I'll warn you early that you might not like my answer! The short answer is yes, you should find original rims and put the original factory-size tires back on the Tahoe. The long answer goes back many years into the engineering archives at General Motors. Despite what many folks like to think, the engineers employed by the auto manufacturers are awfully smart people. They've considered every possible use for your vehicle. They've designed the suspension, the tires, the brakes, the vehicle weight distribution, the shocks, the interior, the sway bars, THE SPARE TIRE, etc., all with maximum performance in every situation in mind. Then, the first thing the proud new owner does is throw all that work out the window by changing what are probably the most important items on the car... the tires. Not to mention the wheels! The width, the offset, the flex, EVERYTHING about those wheels and tires are considered and accounted for. Are aftermarket wheels going to work like original? Nope. No way. In fact, you really shouldn't get me started on aftermarket wheels! Handling problems, tire wear, brake pulsation, shoot there just isn't anything bad that they won't contribute to. Here's what it boils down to; If you're really sure you like the look of the wheels and larger tires, and you're willing to sacrifice some performance, mileage, and handling, then with some searching you can no doubt find someone willing to mount them. But if you'd like the rig to run, drive, ride, and handle like it did when it was new... put on the factory stuff. You'll thank me the first time you drive it afterward!

Thanks for writing Beth. Let me know what you decide and how it works out, ok?

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