'04 2.2, Heating/Cooling issues

[DJRCB]

Hey guys just looking for some advice/help. i have an '04 sunfire, i have been experiencing heating issues for the past year. it seems the problem maybe various issues so im not really sure where to start.

PROBLEMS

1 - the heat doesn't get hot in the winter. its only warm enough to keep the windshield defrosted but not enough to heat the car. (ive touched both inlet and outlet hoses to the heater core and they both are hot)

2- the temp gauge stopped working. i noticed it was acting very weird for a while. the temp readings were very random, one minute it was reading cold and the very next it was in the red. the gauge is now stuck, it went completely around in almost a full circle and is now under the tack needle.

3- A mechanic told me the rad fan is running constant and doesnt turn off (electrical, relay, sensor??)

4 - the same mechanic also said there is a trouble code stating a thermostat problem.

im a student, so im on a very strict budget and it seems like this is an expensive problem to troubleshoot. any help that you guys can offer would be greatly appreciated.

PS. ive been driving the car for about a year like this, it hasnt overheated or any other issues. it just sucks in the winter with no heat.

thanks again for any help!

cheers

 

[Zimgxp]

If your check engine light is on the fans will usually run. Fix the code and see what happens. If it's low coolant temp you may have found your problem

 

[DJRCB]

can anyone verify this could be a solution?

 

[Zimgxp]

What is the code that your mechanic pulled? A number would be helpful. It could be low coolant temp if the thermostat is stuck open.

______________________________

 

[DJRCB]

Would that cause the cooling fan to run constantly?

 

[melsg5]

if you reread the posts it states the fans will run if you have a check engine light on. You have to start somewhere and the most logical place is to correct the cause of the CEL.