i have a 1996 2.2 cavalier, first time this has happen. If im not running the air conditioner n the car is sitting idling, the temperature gets hot. If i turn the air conditioner on. the temperature goes down to normal n stays like that. I can also turn ac off and drive down the road n temperature is fine as well. Engine performance is fine. Any idea what the problem is? I've searched but im not finding any answer on this issue. any response would be greatly appreciated.

when you say hot, how high on the gauge does it get? so long as the needle doesnt stray outside the bracket that says "normal" you're fine.



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water temp gauge right side of speedometer. it goes all way in the red when it gets hot.

sounds like fans are not kicking on?

i'd thought of that also, are they operated from switch ? i checked fuses n those are fine.
or just replace the whole fan unit?

relay under the hood on the driver side fender wall

ok thanks evo.. will check there.