2002 Buick Century Car Overheating in Traffic

145,000 MILES • 6 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
JENNIFERMITCHELL
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
My Car has been overheating while I sit in traffic what could be the problem? It doesnt do it at any other time. And cools down immediately once I start driving agian.
Dec 19, 2008 at 2:51 AM
Advertisement
Avatar
JALOPYPAPA
  • MEMBER
  • 467 POSTS
There are any number of possible causes. They include a malfunctioning thermostat, obstruction in the radiator or elsewhere, a malfunctioning radiator cap. Is there a leak anywhere? That could do it, too.
Dec 20, 2008 at 1:44 PM
Avatar
DOCHAGERTY
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 9,606 POSTS
It could also be the auxiliary fan is not working.
Dec 20, 2008 at 2:57 PM
Avatar
AZHOMBRE
  • MEMBER
  • 6 POSTS
Sounds to me like your fans are not working! I would check the underhood fuse block. Fuses 1&2 both control cooling fans, There are also three relays in the fuse block. Both the fuses and relays could be the cause of your overheating at idle in traffic.
Check them all.
Jul 29, 2009 at 4:51 PM
Avatar
COPPERTOP
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
ON THESE CARS IT IS THE COOLINGFAN, YOU MUST RUN AIR CONDITIONER OR HEATER TO KEEP COOLING FAN ON
Apr 10, 2026 at 2:05 AM
Add a reply
Join 2CarPros for free, one of the most advanced car repair communities on the internet. From first-time drivers to seasoned mechanics, everyone is welcome to reply, share details, and get better answers. You can add a temporary image or video first; uploads are limited to 20 MB.

Frequently Asked Problems for This Vehicle