2003 Hyundai Tiburon Engine overheating

Tiny
JUSTDOMITCH1
  • MEMBER
  • 2003 HYUNDAI TIBURON
  • 2.0L
  • 4 CYL
  • FWD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 127,000 MILES
So, I just purchased this tiburon and when I test drove it, it was fine. Now after I have had it for a few days, I noticed the temperature of the engine getting in between the 1/2 to 3/4 mark on the gauge, but it has not gone over 3/4. I checked the spot where I park it and there is nothing leaking out onto the ground. I added coolant because it seem a little low and nothing changed. The car heats up fairly quick compared to my old 05 altima, and the air comes out warm considering it is only about 10 degrees right now where I live. I'm not sure what the problem could be. Can you help?
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Tuesday, February 17th, 2015 AT 2:29 PM

3 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,005 POSTS
It could be a few things. First, does it get that hot when you are at highway speeds or only when you are in stop and go traffic? Also, does the radiator appear clean inside? If the problem happens at highway speeds and the radiator looks good, chances are the thermostat is going bad and not fully opening.

Let me know.
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Tuesday, February 17th, 2015 AT 6:51 PM
Tiny
JUSTDOMITCH1
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  • 3 POSTS
From what I have noticed, the car gets hot when I am moving. I haven't gone faster than 45 mph in it yet though. When it sits there the gauge just stands still but as I accelerate and decelerate the gauge moves. I checked the radio fluid and it is not cloudy at all. It seemed to be very clean.
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Tuesday, February 17th, 2015 AT 7:14 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,005 POSTS
Since everything looks good, I would recommend removing and checking the thermostat. To me, it sounds like it isn't fully opening. Here is the test procedure. However, once it's out, I would just replace it. They are inexpensive.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-test-an-engine-cooling-system-thermostat

Also, read through this and see if there is anything that may be helpful.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/engine-overheating-or-running-hot

Check these things and let me know what you find.

Joe

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Tuesday, February 17th, 2015 AT 7:20 PM

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