1995 Cadillac EL Dorado why is car overheating

An overheat can have different characteristics that give indications to what might be causing it. If it is showing overheat, and you can wrap your hand around the upper radiator hose without it being too hot, you may have a thermostat that is stuck closed. If it is overheating after running hard, it could mean an internal leak like a headgasket, cooling fans that are failing to operate, or restricted airflow across the radiator. If the upper radiator hose is hot to the touch, you can have a block test performed that may indicate internal leak by detecting the presence of combustion gases in the cooling system. Obvoiusly low coolant level can cause overheat, a pressure test is also a good choice. A missing water pump belt would cause an overheat. Although it is rare, a faulty water pump could be cause. The best bet, is to have some diagnostics run before throwing parts at it. Head gasket leaks are a common failure on these, and an expensive repair.