1999 Honda Civic Radiator

1999 HONDA CIVIC
145,000 MILES • 4 CYL • FWD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
CSLYJR14
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
I recently had my car overheat pretty badly. I found that I had burned my radiator out of water. So, I replaced the water and the car lasted about 5 miles before it overheated again. I found that I had a leak in one of the hoses, so I replaced it. I gave it an oil change and replaced the radiator fuid. The car seemed to be doing fine, but then the temperature guage started flickering around between average temp and cold. The car's been sputtering a bit and the temperature guage permanently rests at cold. Any ideas?
Dec 8, 2008 at 4:34 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
F4I_GUY
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 3,302 POSTS
Did the car sputter before? You may have a headgasket failure or some other damage that was caused by the overheat.

First thing I would check is to ensure you have properly bled the system of air. Leave the rad cap off for one or two fan cycles with the heater on hot. Ensure that both rad hoses are around the same temperature (just feel them) You may have to revv it up a bit to get rid of some of the air bubbles.

If the coolant is bled properly and you still are stuck on cold, you may have a faulty thermostat.
Dec 8, 2008 at 4:39 PM
Avatar
CSLYJR14
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
No... the car was not sputtering before the overheat.
Dec 8, 2008 at 6:16 PM
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.