why does my grand am gt run hot like it is almost going to overheat

Try a new thermostat, and go 180 degrees if you can.

Also check to make sure the heater hoses are in the correct positions. If they are reversed the haeater output will be low too.

thermostat. make sure no holes in the radiator. hoses are clamped on tight. Dirty fluid. do a flush 180 degrees will open sooner. heater wont be as host as opposed to higher degree thermostat

Im having this problem as well. So I went to the GM dealership. They informed me that these vehicles are designed to.run hot, thus the reason there are no options for a thermostat lower than 185.