Recently my 2000 3.4L's message center came on an told me that the coolant level was low. Checkedthe resivoure and it was fine. I've also noticed that the car is taking alot longer to warm up and doesn't get anywhere near as warm inside as in the past. I'm wondering if this could be a problem with my thermostat. Thanx in advance.

 

Had any work done on the cooling system recently?

 

Your thermostat is most likely stuck open.

 

To save you money do this very simple test:

1. Get a clear container that will sustain heat and fill it with water.
2. Get a stick long enough that you can lay it across the top of the container so you can hang your thermostat from it without your thermostat touching anything (it must be suspended in the water).
3. Stick a thermometer in the water so you can observe the temp as it rises (once again don't touch the sides or bottom).
4. Heat and stir the water
5. The thermostat should begin to open at the temp stamped on it, + or - 10 deg F. It should be fully open (1/4 inch)at 22deg F above the specified temp stamped on it.
6. Remove the thermostatand observe its closingaction.
7. If it does not close or takes a long time to close it is defective and you should throw it away and get a new thermostat.
8. Make sure you replace the thermostat with the manufacturer recommended temp.