[pochousa]

My 2012 cts blows nice cold air while moving but it I get in traffic their does not feel cold, just cool air. Has anyone had this issue and know how to resolve it.

I have a 3.6L with the performance package

 

[Padgett]

Two things come to mind:
- electric fan not working (car will generally overheat at stoplights)
- low on Freon (I keep a case or two of 134 around). Be sure the caps are on.

 

[Long]

Two good places to start. ^^^

 

[remmyman]

If the fan isn’t coming on check the fan resistor. A sure sign it’s the resistor is if the fan is only coming on at the highest speed. It will come on and shut off quickly. An inexpensive and simple repair.

 

[tinman]

At higher speeds you might be getting enough airflow to keep the engine temperature down, just be aware. It's easy to check your temperature by looking at your gauge. To me it sounds as if you are low on Freon.

 

[mprico1]

I'm having the same issue with my 2012 CTS. I know it has something do with the fan because it comes on for 10 seconds on initial start up and then never comes back on for any reason. Also, ECU1 has a pending code P0480. R134a refrigerant is good, fan relays are good. I'm thinking it could be the fan resistor but it could also be the Powertrain Control Module or any of the sensors feeding it a signal. Not sure what my next step is going to be. Any help would be appreciated.

 

[remmyman]

Check your resistor for voltage or disconnect it and check for continuity. Both very easy to do. I’m almost sure it’s the resistor.

 

[Mr_J]

Does anyone have a link for a “how to” / “DIY” for replacing the resistor on a 2012??

 

[remmyman]

I’m going to go on memory. I don’t have my car with me as I write this. Just follow the wiring to your fan, it plugs into the resistor then goes into the fan motor. Maybe one or two screws. The whole replacement takes less then ten minutes. Later tonight or tomorrow I’ll be home and would be able to give more details if you need them.

 

[Padgett]

BTW there is a service manual on CD/download on eBay.

 

[mprico1]

So this afternoon the replacement AC Delco resistor I ordered from Amazon arrived, it only cost me $40 and took 10 minutes to install. Problem solved! Fan operates as it should and AC blows cold even if the car is standing still.

 

[Mr_J]

Remmyman, Padgett and Mprico:
I’m no mechanic, so was trying to find a How To or DIY. I just got the part, I’ll check some manuals and have at it. Thanks!!

 

[Padgett]

Glad to hear it, airflow through the condenser is critical for proper cooling.

 

[Mr_J]

Glad to hear it, airflow through the condenser is critical for proper cooling.

Just completed it. Now I feel foolish for asking for a How To or DIY. It was just that easy. 6 retainers and 1 screw. Voila!!!

 

[Long]

It was just that easy. 6 retainers and 1 screw. Voila!!!

Sounds like a divorce.

 

[pochousa]

I have the same issue. Where is the engine cooling fan resistor located?
Thanks in advance

 

[Joseph Upson]

Sounds like a divorce.

In the early stages at that with just one screw.

 

[Byrdman]

Sounds like a divorce.

now THAT was funny right there.

 

[Long]

I have the same issue. Where is the engine cooling fan resistor located?
Thanks in advance

Engine compartment side of fan assembly. Lower passenger side.
The pic in post #14 shows what you're looking for

 

[pochousa]

Thanks!!!