SureTrack Real Fix: Esteemed Heat

It’s always a good idea to pay attention to your vehicle’s gauges. When it says you’re overheating, pull over and seek assistance. Follow this Real Fix to see how this seemingly overheating Suzuki Esteem was diagnosed and repaired.

Vehicle
2002 Suzuki Esteem GL 1.8L

Title
Engine Overheats, Replaced Engine Coolant Temperature Switch

Complaint
The customer states the engine is overheating.

Cause
Confirmed the customer concern and noted the instrument cluster engine coolant temperature gauge read in the over temperature range. Inspected the engine coolant level and condition and found no concerns. Inspected the engine cooling system components, but found no concerns. Used a scan tool to monitor the live data and found the engine coolant temperature switch parameter was out of specifications. Used a non-contact pyrometer to measure the engine coolant temperature and found the measured temperature was within specifications. Inspected the engine coolant temperature switch wiring harness and connector but found no concerns. With the key on, engine off, used a multi-meter to check for voltage and ground at the engine coolant temperature switch connector and found both were present. Used the multi-meter and measured the resistance of the engine coolant temperature switch. The measured resistance was not within the specifications, which indicated the engine coolant temperature switch was faulty.

Correction
Replaced the engine coolant temperature switch, cleared codes, performed a road test and verified the vehicle operated properly. The check engine light did not illuminate and no fault codes returned.