Cooling system not working properly

CHRISTIENHADDEN

MEMBER
2003 MITSUBISHI ECLIPSE
3.0L
V6
2WD
MANUAL
156,000 MILES

I went for a roughly 45-minute drive home and my coolant was boiling. The temperature gauge was reading where it normally does, about half. Exhaust was normal color, timing seemed good, mileage was good, overflow was boiling but at the right level. After about 2 minutes the overflow returned to the radiator. The ambient temperature was -3celcius outside. What could be the issue? Any help would be greatly appreciated, thank you.

Tuesday, January 11th, 2022 AT 5:47 PM

3 Replies

SQM

MECHANIC
6,383 POSTS

Hello,

So just to clarify, the engine was not overheating?

And you saw the overflow tank bubble up?

That typically happens when there is air in the cooling system. This can be due to a faulty radiator cap. If the cap does not hold the proper pressure, it can leak out coolant and let air inside the system.

Make sure that the radiator cap is secured. It might be a good idea to test the cap. Typically, you can go to your local auto parts store, and they will have radiator cap tester that you should be able to use.

Typically, these vehicles use 14-15 PSI radiator cap.

Please let me know of any questions.
Thank you.

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Tuesday, January 11th, 2022 AT 10:32 PM

CHRISTIENHADDEN

MEMBER
2 POSTS

Hey thanks for getting back to me so quickly! The car was not overheating, it was sitting at its usual temperature while driving, etc. I’m at school right now and have to work after but I will check by my local parts store for a radiator cap tester. By visual inspection at the moment this happened the cap seemed fine but I didn’t open it for obvious reasons. I will get back to you as soon as possible with the results. Thanks again it’s much appreciated. :)

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Wednesday, January 12th, 2022 AT 11:09 AM

SQM