2002 Dodge Intrepid Overheating Noise

DODGE INTREPID
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UCALLMEFAT4711
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
I have a 2002 Dodge Intrepid ES. It has about 82000 miles on it. I've been hearing a strange noise for the past year whenever the engine is running. and about a month ago the engine started overheating. When it first started overheating it wouldnt go up all the way to red, about a week later, i had to run the heat and that would bring the temp back down to normal. Now its gotten so bad that even with the heat on high, it wont go back to normal, it stays up very high. One of my friends who know some stuff about cars says it is the water pump. any suggestions?!?
Jul 14, 2006 at 12:14 PM
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MIKEYBDMAN
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 623 POSTS
First off, have you had to add water? Is it low? If you have a very small leak, it will slowly get hotter and hotter. I would check for proper servicing both in the radiator, and the over flow container.
If the water level is correct, when was the last time you replaced your thermostat? If you havent in several years, its a good idea to replace it before it sticks closed on you. This may fix your problem. But if not, a water pump may be the problem, but usually they go bad by leaking.
Its a good idea to get this fixed before you have major engine problems. Do not let the water tempt get into the red zone. You can warp heads and have big problems real quick.
Jul 14, 2006 at 1:14 PM
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VANDRAGON
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 298 POSTS
i agree with all he said and get the pump replaced. chrylslers are called, water pump eaters...my own van did the same for about a year. it would only loose coolant once in a while. the noise sounds like a rock is knocking around in the front of the motor. look at the white lettering on the drive belt, if there is none or it's brownish get the water pump and belt changed asap. if it's a 3.3 or 3.8 and the belt breaks or pump locks-up your stranded. mine went bad at only 37000.
Jul 15, 2006 at 6:05 AM

Suggested Repair

Check the radiator and overflow coolant level for a slow leak. If the level is correct and the thermostat has not been replaced in years, replace it. Also inspect the drive belt; if the lettering is missing or brown, replace the water pump and belt promptly. Do not let the temperature reach the red zone, which can warp the heads.

Conversation Summary

The owner of a 2002 Dodge Intrepid with about 82,000 miles reports a year-long engine noise and worsening overheating that no longer drops with the heater on. Experts recommend checking coolant level and overflow for a small leak, replacing an aging thermostat, and inspecting the water pump and drive belt. They warn that continued overheating can warp the cylinder heads.

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