Coolant flowing out reservoir overflow tube

2004 OLDSMOBILE ALERO
160,000 MILES • 3.4L • 6 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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CRISSY9845
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Coolant is coming out of overflow tube on reservoir.
Jul 10, 2018 at 5:28 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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  • 110,175 POSTS
Hi and thanks for using 2CarPros.com.

If coolant is coming out there, either the system is over full, the engine is overheating, or a blown head gasket can sometimes fill the system with pressure causing this.

If there is a leak, the coolant could get low and cause the engine to over heat. Here is a link describing how to check for a leak:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/car-is-leaking-coolant

Another cause of overheating is a bad thermostat. Take a look at these links:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-an-engine-thermostat-works
https://www.2carpros.com/articles/replace-thermostat

Next, if radiator cooling fans are not operating, this too can allow the vehicle to overheat, especially in stop and go traffic:
https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-an-electric-cooling-fan-works

Check these things first and let me know what you find. At that point, I will be better able to help.

Take care,
Joe
Jul 10, 2018 at 8:14 PM