1998 Volkswagen Golf engine

142,000 MILES • 1.6L • FWD • MANUAL
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DANIVOR
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
My car was overheating and blowing cold air so I changed the thermostat. The car still overheats but i now get hot air when it's overheating and the temperature will drop and rise along with the temperature blowing through the vents. I have even tried running the car with the cap off the expansion tank to release any air lock. I tried that for an hour but I'm still getting the above problem.
Dec 9, 2014 at 10:31 PM
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JOHNNYT73
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 924 POSTS
On this vehicle the expansion take is also the only fill for the cooling system correct? If it is then I would do the same thing. Leave the cap off and run it with the heat on till its at operating temperature. Raise the rpm to about 3000 and hold for about 5 seconds (do this about 5 times or so). Keep your eye on the coolant level to keep it at the right level. Be sure the thermostat has opened before you shut off the car and to do the rpm raises before and after it has opened. Usually I just say to keep it running till the cooling fans come on (but dont let the engine overheat). When you think its done, shut off the car and leave the cap off. Let the car cool down completely then top off coolant if needed to recommended level. Place the cap back on and let it warm up. Make sure you still have heat and no overheating.
Dec 10, 2014 at 12:01 AM
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DANIVOR
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Thanks for the advice. I'll try what you have said and let you know how I get on.
Dec 10, 2014 at 12:21 AM
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JOHNNYT73
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 924 POSTS
Were you able to correct the issue?
Dec 21, 2014 at 11:47 PM
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