Q: Coolant temperature overheats when driving

asked by on October 11, 2016

The coolant temperature gauge would continue to rise as I drive. I checked the coolant level and topped it off earlier today, but it's still having the same issue when I drive. No noticeable leaks underneath the engine. I also noticed the radiator fan would typically run for 3-5 minutes after I shut off the car. Any idea what the problem might be? Thanks

Car is overheating Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

Hi, thanks for writing in. This can be caused by a number of things such as low coolant levels, a faulty thermostat, or a failing coolant fan switch. As you may know the coolant fan switch helps to maintain the proper coolant temperature by turning on and off at specific temperature thresholds. When this switch is not working properly, this can cause the fans to come on intermittently, all the time or sometimes not at all. When this happens you will notice a temperature spike and drop occasionally as the fan comes on and off. If you would like help, consider having an expert automotive technician from YourMechanic come to your home or office to inspect and diagnose this issue for you, and make or suggest any repairs as needed.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

How do you set the zone on the compass?
If your car is equipped with an electronic compass, you might find that you need to set the zone correctly. This is because magnetic north and true north are not always the same – it depends on where you’re located...
What does the Apply Brake Before Cruise message mean?
The Apply Brake Before Cruise message can appear on your driver information center (DIC) when you are trying to use the cruise control system. When this alert is displayed on the DIC, press the brake pedal, and then try to...
How do I adjust the volume limiter?
When the volume limiter feature is turned on, the volume of the sound system will be limited to a safe volume. To turn this feature on or off, follow these steps: 1. Press the Up/Down buttons on the steering wheel...
Bluetooth works engine off
Hello. EMI (electromagnetic interference) is electromagnetic energy that is passed through electronic devices. EMI is disruptive and can affect bluetooth devices and/or your GMC Safari's electronic system if not properly shielded. This is not a common problem, but it is...
Rpm goes up I let off gas then it'll shift.. what causes that?
Hello. From what you describe it would appear that your vehicle may be shifting late or slipping. The first thing I would do is check the transmission fluid to see if it may be low or dirty. If the fluid...
can passenger airbag deploy if there is no passenger on the seat?
Hello, thank you for writing in. The passenger airbag is capable of going off without a person in the seat. Typically they are equipped with a switch that will let you turn the passenger airbag on or off at your...
could adding a small amount of non honda antifreeze into overflow reservoir cause check engine light to appear a day later
Although it is not recommended to mix different antifreeze chemistries, that recommendation "usually" has more to do with avoiding negative effects (of mixing) on the service life of the coolant than any possibility for system damage. That is, mixing different...
Transmission will not sift up from low
What you are describing may be a sign of low transmission fluid (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/transmission-fluid-service) or a faulty transmission control solenoid. As you know, automatic transmissions use pressurized hydraulic fluid to change gears. Every time a gear change is required, the car's...
What would happen if the wrong catalytic converter was installed in my 2001 Toyota Camry
Hello. The wrong converter will cause your check engine light to come on and will cause you to not pass emissions. It can also cause some performance and efficiency issues over time. There are specific converters built for all vehicles...

Related articles

How Does the Hazard Switch Work?
When When you experience difficulties while driving like a flat tire, running out of gas, or an unfortunate accident, your vehicle can be immobile at the side of the road or worse, in an active lane of traffic. If this...
How to Replace a Rear Window Defogger Switch
The rear window has a defogger switch that fails if the button does not light up, the rear window does not defog, or the switch does not always work.
How to Replace a Coolant Vacuum Valve Switch
A vacuum line attaches to the vacuum switch in your car as part of the engine’s heating and cooling system. A faulty switch can break your heater.