Xyzoxious

Hey guys!
I have a small problem with my car. My girlfriend lives up this fairly steep hill and when I try to drive up, it starts to overheat when I start getting to the top. The hill is REALLY rough so I take it all the way in 1st gear since my car is low to the ground. It probably takes about 45 seconds to get all the way up the hill but that's all it takes to start getting hot. Any help? I was told it's the radiator but I want y'alls opinion.

Urambo Tauro

How's your coolant level? Any leaks?

Buck Sergeant

Xyzoxious, sounds like the cooling system needs a good "burping." The angle might be uncovering a trapped air pocket.

Xyzoxious

Coolant level is fine. I had it overheat on me one time going up that same hill but it turns out, right after that, it would overheat regularly. That was just my fan motor, it went out on me so I replaced it.
As far as having to "burp" the coolant system, thanks for the suggestion. I'll have to try that tomorrow after work. I DID have a complete cooling system flush somewhat recently so that may be the case.
Any other suggestions?

bl817

check the fan relays in the fuse box under the hood. there is 1 for each high and low. if they overheat and melt the box underneath, that can cause problems. there are several threads on how to add external relays for the high and low sides. trying to find myself so I can bookmark. good luck

tw1234

If electric fans check out OK, have you ever changed the thermostat? It may be stuck partially closed. Also check for debris stuck to front of rad/condenser blocking air flow.