Overheating?

Tiny
MARKVELLUTATO
  • MEMBER
  • 2002 CADILLAC DEVILLE
  • V8
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 172,000 MILES
I had a new radiator put in two years ago and have had no cooling system problems. Two weeks ago, I noticed my temperature gauge elevate. The next day, my overflow jug took 3/4 gallon of antifreeze. My mechanic put dye in my overflow but did not see anything showing a leak. He also did a pressure test on the radiator, and everything seemed fine. He put double the amount of dye in the overflow and told me to return after thanksgiving. Today, a week later, my temperature gauge went towards hot again. After the car cooled, I added about a third of a gallon. I haven't driven it and plan to take it back to my mechanic to take another look. He said he hopes it isn't the start of a head gasket leak and the coolant may possibly be going out my exhaust. Do you have any ideas as to what my problem could be? Thank you.
Thursday, November 24th, 2022 AT 2:14 PM

5 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,755 POSTS
Hi,

It sounds like what he is saying is correct. If you see no leaks under the vehicle, it has to be going somewhere.

Have you ever noticed excessive white smoke from the exhaust? Is there any evidence of coolant mixing with the engine oil?

Do me a favor. Take a look through this link and let me know if anything mirrors what you have seen or experienced. The link is specific to testing, but it does provide pics showing common symptoms.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/head-gasket-blown-test

Let me know. Also, let me know if you have other questions.

Take care,

Joe
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Thursday, November 24th, 2022 AT 8:15 PM
Tiny
MARKVELLUTATO
  • MEMBER
  • 43 POSTS
Thanks for answering my question. I actually got a call from my mechanic today. He spoke about gases and a large amount of pressure in the cooling system. He also mentioned problems with combustion in the cylinders. It is overheating in a matter of minutes! He recommended retiring the car and that it isn't worth the money to attempt such repairs as outcomes aren't guaranteed with these jobs. Now i'm looking for a relatively cheap car. I'm disabled, on social security disability, i'm 6 ft 5 and 380 lbs. Imagine finding another car I can fit into today! If you can suggest any, let me know. Thanks again.
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Saturday, November 26th, 2022 AT 1:13 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,755 POSTS
Hi,

Did he indicate he feels it is a head gasket issue? That is what I was thinking as well. If you want, I can help you replace the head gaskets. It's not a small job but shouldn't be too bad. Is that something you would feel comfortable performing?

Let me know.

Take care,

Joe
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Saturday, November 26th, 2022 AT 8:57 PM
Tiny
MARKVELLUTATO
  • MEMBER
  • 43 POSTS
Joe, thanks for the offer, but my mechanic was clear that my car is not deserving of one more penny being put into it. I told you about my disability, size, etc, i've decided to pursue a state subsidized program in NJ called access link for the disabled. They pick you up at your door and take you anywhere you need to go at a minimal cost. I think this is my best option given my disability, my finances, no way to even get around to look for another vehicle, etc. It will be a new life without a car but I think it is best for me now. Thanks so much again.
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Sunday, November 27th, 2022 AT 5:07 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,755 POSTS
Hi,

You are very welcome. If anything changes, I'm here if you have questions.

Take care of yourself,

Joe
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Sunday, November 27th, 2022 AT 7:38 PM

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