1999 Pontiac overheating, a bit?

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NotQuitePerfect

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My heat doesn't really work anymore, only when I'm driving on the expressway, when I am driving on the side streets the car blows cold air.

I noticed that my temperature gauge has been increasing in very small increments and now it's every so slightly over the middle line. I'm not overheating in a major way to make me stop driving, but I'm afraid it's going to get to that point.

Based on these symptoms, does anyone have any suggestions as to what's wrong and the possible cost for such repairs?

Thanks in advance for any help!
Will I hurt my car by continuing to drive it until at least next week? That's the soonest I can get it in to the shop. I only drive it about 20-25 miles M-F.

Thanks so much for your help!
I meant 20-25 miles each day M-F
 
1st check the coolant level. that is the easiest and cheapest solution.
If the coolant level is fine then
2nd change the thermostat. That is also fairly simple. In most cases it is just a hose clamp and two bolts which can easily be accomplished on your own.
3rd You should have your coolant flushed which is a good idea to do anyway especially if you have never done so in the past. I generally take my vehicle to a shop for this because I don't really have the supplies to handel all the old coolant. It is not very expensive depending on where you take it. Not all places are equipped to do coolant flushes. Most Jiffy Lubes are so I am sure other quick lube places are too.
Hope this helps
 
Check the coolant level when the car is cold so you don't burn yourself. Sometimes if it's low it will make the heat not work. If that isn't the cause then the thermostat is a possibility or a clogged radiator.
 
There are a couple possibilities for this situation. Your cooling system could be dirty causing build up which is restricting flow. A flush of your system should alleviate this and cost around $30-$60. You could have a problem with your thermostat causing it to not open at the correct temperature which could vary in cost depending on the shop you take it to $60-$200...don't get ripped off though! Hope this helps.
 
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