2005 Toyota Matrix Run Ac M Stop Traffic Temperature Gauge Will Skyrocket

2005 TOYOTA MATRIX
148,000 MILES
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SAMANTHAA
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
When I run my AC when I'm in stop-and-go traffic, my temperature gauge will skyrocket to the "red zone." My car will start to smell like burning rubber/plastic, and if I don't catch it in time, orange liquid will come bubbling over and spilling onto the ground. If I'm driving on the highway though, it's completely fine. I know the car is essentially overheating. Any ideas on why and how to fix it?
Nov 29, 2012 at 4:41 AM
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KHLOW2008
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 41,814 POSTS
Check the cooling fans, seems they are not working. While on the highway, air flowing into the engine compartment is sufficient to keep the temperature down.

Turn on A/C and not if cooling fans comes on.
Nov 29, 2012 at 5:19 AM
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