1992 Chevrolet Cavalier RS, 2D Convertible, 2.2 4, StandardFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Hot Light Or Coolant Temperature Light

NOTE: These checks assume vehicle is not overheating. Verify proper operation of cooling system prior to diagnosing hot light. The coolant temperature sensor, in rare cases, may fail to indicate the correct coolant temperature without setting a malfunction code (Code 14 or 15). This could result in turning on the hot light without having an overheating condition. It could also result in engine overheating without turning on the hot light. Check coolant sensor temperature-to-resistance values in SENSOR RANGE CHARTS article in this section.

Hot light is powered by the 10-amp INDIC or GAGES fuse. Light will turn on when ECM provides a ground for the circuit. If circuit grounds between light and ECM, light will illuminate any time the ignition is turned on.

  1. Turn ignition on with engine off (bulb test position). If hot light illuminates, go to step 3). If hot light does not illuminate, check the following:
    • 10-amp INDIC OR GAGES fuse.
    • Faulty instrument cluster bulb.
    • Open circuit between fuse and hot light.
  2. Backprobe ECM hot light driver terminal with a test light to battery voltage. Turn ignition on. If test light does not illuminate, ECM terminal connection is bad or ECM is faulty. If test light illuminates, turn ignition off. Disconnect ECM connectors. Jumper ECM hot light driver harness terminal to ground. Turn ignition on. If hot light does not illuminate, check for open circuit between hot light and ECM. If light does not illuminate and all circuits are intact and power is available to light, instrument cluster must be replaced.
  3. Start engine. If test light goes off, no problem is evident. If test light is on, turn ignition off. Disconnect ECM connector. Probe ECM hot light driver harness terminal with a test light to battery voltage. If light is off, replace ECM. If light is on, repair short to ground in hot light driver circuit. If no short is present, replace instrument cluster.
Factory Service Tools

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.

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