Engine overheating and top radiator hose blows out steam

Tiny
ANTHONY LAIRD
  • MEMBER
  • 2000 FORD TAURUS
  • 3.0L
  • 6 CYL
  • 2WD
  • 189,000 MILES
I bought the car listed above SE model, and it likes to overheat. The top hose coming from the engine to the radiator reservoir blows out steam. I got told it was the thermostat and it I also noticed that neither one of my fans go on at all even when I turn on the air conditioner. Where should I start at first?
Wednesday, November 10th, 2021 AT 9:15 PM

5 Replies

Tiny
SQM
  • MECHANIC
  • 6,383 POSTS
Hello,

Since the fans are not coming on that should be the first item to look at.
Fans can be inoperative due to a bad fan relay, coolant temperature sensor, wiring issue, or a bad fan motor.

First check the relay. It is located under the hood fuse box (see diagram).
Check for any burn pin(s) or corrosion.
That relay can also be tested.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-an-electrical-relay-and-wiring-control-circuit

If the relay is good, then you will need to see if you are getting power to the fan.

Does this overheat when you drive or only when stationary?

Please let me know what you find or any questions.
Thank you.
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Wednesday, November 10th, 2021 AT 11:02 PM
Tiny
ANTHONY LAIRD
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
I tested the fans they work, and my relays are brand new. The engine shoots steam from the hose set supposed to connect to the top of the radiator reservoir by the lid.
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Wednesday, November 10th, 2021 AT 11:12 PM
Tiny
SQM
  • MECHANIC
  • 6,383 POSTS
So, your fans operate as they are supposed to. On your first question you mentioned that the fan does not work.

If the thermostat is stuck closed, you will have noticeable temperature difference between the upper and lower hose. One will be hot and stiff other would be cooler and soft.
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Wednesday, November 10th, 2021 AT 11:27 PM
Tiny
ANTHONY LAIRD
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
Yes, the top hose blows out steam and fans do not work and the bottom one is kind of cold. I was told it was possibly the thermostat but just trying to make sure otherwise in that the car runs great.
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Thursday, November 11th, 2021 AT 5:24 AM
Tiny
SQM
  • MECHANIC
  • 6,383 POSTS
So yes, the thermostat is likely stuck closed and needs replacing. I have attached the diagrams below for your reference.
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Thursday, November 11th, 2021 AT 7:56 AM

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