1996 Honda Accord Engine running very hot just after oil ch

1996 HONDA ACCORD
201,100 MILES • 4 CYL • FWD • AUTOMATIC
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GLINDAWITCH
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The car engine temp was perfect just prior to having the oil changed, new tires and alignment two days ago. When I drove the car away from the shop the engine began to overheat and continues to overheat unless the car is moving. The temp gauge will fluctuate from under the half way mark while driving on the freeway to nearly in the red zone when at a stop light or in stop and go traffic. Turning the heater on full blast lowers the engine temp dramatically and very quickly.

I'm thinking it may be the radiator??? Could it be the type of oil used with the oil change? It just seems too coincidental that this is happening immediately after the above work was done on the car.

Thanks in advance for any help!!
Aug 22, 2009 at 9:00 PM
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RASMATAZ
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Check the oil level if okay, is the cooling fan coming on-coolant level in the radiator up to level. let me know
Aug 22, 2009 at 9:25 PM
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GLINDAWITCH
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All fluid levels are fine and there are two fans behind the radiator that are both working when the car is running.

I did notice a very small amount (maybe 1/4 teaspoon) on the top of the radiator. I wiped it up and after driving for a bit that tiny bit of coolant was there again.

I had to turn the heater on full blast (during a very hot humid day) to stop the car from completely overheating.

I'm just about to take it back to the repair shop that did the work a couple days ago when the overheating problem began.

Thanks
Aug 24, 2009 at 9:51 AM
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GLINDAWITCH
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the radiator was cracked so I had to have it replaced. Thanks for your reply rasmataz
Aug 24, 2009 at 2:31 PM
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