Malibu 2010 intake issue

Hello everyone.

I own a 2010 Chevrolet Malibu 3.5LT. About a few months ago, I noticed my engine temperature was going up a little bit when I drive fast and sometimes when standing still (whenever the air intake is low).

When this happens, I go outside to open the hood and I take a look at the intake fans. Most of time, both fans are working but at very low speed where they should be at the top speed because the engine needs the air.

In order to solve it, I turn on the AC and then both fans kick into the highest speed setting and the temperature goes back to normal (90•C).

I suspect it’s the thermostat but I’m not sure. Using a quite expensive code reader, no DTCs were found but the code reader can’t access the AIR or CAT modules because the car doesn’t support it so I wouldn’t know.

Has anyone experienced a similar issue or can point me in the right direction?

thank you.