Q: Hot at idle and low when driving never stays in middle
Just replaced 3 freeze plugs and thermostat and radiator cap. Car won't hold stedy temp I have no leaks now and no heat maybe 2 min of heat then cool air.
My car has 167000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.
Recommended Services
| Car is overheating Inspection | $94.99 - $114.99 | Get a Quote |
Hi. This sounds like the water pump is not circulating the antifreeze in the engine. When a water pump stops circulating the antifreeze as well as it should the car tends to run hot when it is at idle and cooler when you are moving because you increase the engine speed while moving causing the water pump to increase its speed. Another possibility is that the radiator is clogged and causing the flow of coolant to be restricted. I suggest you having a certified technician from YourMechanic come and diagnose your cars overheating condition to avoid any necessary repairs.
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
What others are asking
How do I open the trunk with the remote keyless entry (RKE) transmitter?
The remote keyless entry (RKE) transmitter can be used to open your vehicle’s trunk. Here’s how: 1. Press the unlock button on the RKE transmitter. The unlock button looks like an open padlock, and will unlock all of the vehicle’s...
What does the Release Parking Brake message mean?
The Release Parking Brake message can appear on your driver information center (DIC). When the DIC displays this alert, then your parking brake is currently engaged. If you receive this alert, release the parking brake before driving your vehicle.
No cold air
There are many reasons why the AC would only blow hot air in your car. The most common would be a pressure switch or low refrigerant. Over time the refrigerant will leak out and once it is low enough it...
Dead cylinder
If there is a stuck exhaust valve, that head needs to come off for a closer inspection. I would look into the low compression on the other head first. Perform a compression test, but also a leak-down test; you want...
I'm getting new tires installed but I can't afford an alignment for a week. Is that OK?
You should be fine. If you aren't having a problem with you steering veering to the left or right excessively, or a wear and tear problem then you will be fine. Even if you are having problems with the front...
Engine won't idle when cold - 2001 Chevrolet Silverado
Hi there - given your repairs already, I would suspect a fuel-related issue (https://www.yourmechanic.com/question/my-car-starts-and-then-dies-several-times-before-it-will-stay-running-but-only-when-it-s-cold-by-tommy), specifically the engine coolant temperature sensor (for engine management, not the gauge). If a faulty temperature signal is sent to engine management, the engine may not...
"Transmission Service Urgent" light is on.
Hi there. Check the transmission fluid level and make sure that its full. When checking the level, look at the color of the fluid. If the fluid is red or dark red, then I recommend draining the transmission oil and...
Jack oil in power steering.
Jack oil will not hurt the power steering system as the system can handle power steering fluid and transmission fluid. As long as the oil is about the same viscosity of the fluid, then it will be okay since it...
how much would it cost for a mechanic to replace a timing belt on a 2003 nissan altima?
Hi there. If you'd like to get a price estimate for a timing belt replacement, please click this link (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/timing-belt-replacement). Once you get to the service page, click the Get a Quote button and enter your vehicle and location information....
Related articles
How a Car's Heating System Works
The The sun sets, and the air has a chill. You pause to flip your jacket collar up, and you walk briskly to your car door and slide into the driver's seat. Once you start your car, it’s only moments...
How to Buy a Good Quality Water Pump
When When your car is running it's important that it maintains the proper temperature, which is why the water pump is so important. Not only does it pump water, as the name suggests, but it also pumps coolant into the...
Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Thermo Coolant Fan Switch
Common signs include engine overheating, the Check Engine Light coming on, and a broken or shorter signal wire.
Browse other content
Services
Cities
Estimates