I have a 94 Honda Accord that just started overheating on Saturday. When I turn the car off I hear the fan come on. I replaced the thermostat yesterday but this morning when I drove to work, it went back up to the red line...Its not smoking and the engine is not putting off a lot of heat. What could be wrong here?
Any help would be GREATLY appreciated as this is my only mode of transportation!!!


Just wanted to add that this car has never overheated before, this is the first time it has ever even went above the middle mark ??? Im lost!

TxGreaseMonkey

I suspect the radiator needs to be replaced ($108 at AutoZone). Phosphate scale has likely blocked many of the passages in the radiator. An infra red thermometer can help locate "cold spots." After changing the radiator, refill with a 50/50 mixture of Zerex G-05 antifreeze (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) and distilled water. Bring a gallon of distilled water and a gallon of antifreeze to the mechanic. Honda specifies distilled water. This link may help:

http://www.askmehelpdesk.com/cars-tr...tml#post235973

It's not safe to drive the car in this condition, since overheating is the primary cause of warping the aluminum head, damaging the valves, and blowing the head gasket ($2,700 repair bill).

Here's a link regarding the proper type of antifreeze for your car:

http://www.askmehelpdesk.com/cars-tr...ml#post1365453

geediddy

When you refilled your cooling system did you have the heater control valve fully open and was the vehicle warm? Sometimes you think you have the system full, but the thermostat or heater may be holding air in the system. Then you start going and it overheats because it doesn't have enough fluid.

Is there fluid coming out the radiator overflow when you shut it down? This could indicate excess pressure building up in the radiator from a leaking head gasket. If the head gasket is leaking by then you can try something like this for a short term fix.
How to Fix a Head Gasket With Engine Block Sealer | eHow.com

berrysweetncgurl

had the water pump replaced and timing belt replaced...cost me $325 but it seems to have done the job.