Overheating problem

190,000 MILES • 3.3L • 3 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
BIGZAC
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
When I am parked idling my van starts to overheating In about fifteen minutes after the van is warm unless I have the heater running. I am not the best mechanic but I have a few friends that can help me if I cannot figure it out. I just cannot afford to be replacing things that are not the issue. I am out of work and the van is my lifeline. I am not sure where to start with it, I am hoping for some tips or ideas on diagnosing the problem without spending much money (that I do not have I am broke pretty much). so hopefully I can fix it at home. I just got the van and am not familiar with it. I do not know where to start, it has not overheated while driving only when I have been parked with it running and the heater not on. I have been told maybe thermostat or water pump. it does have that annoying belt squeal that comes and goes. I was told that it could be the water pump pulley squealing, but I have also been told it could be as simple as a sensor. the fact that it does not seem to overheat when I have the heater on is what is confusing, only when it is off have I had the problem. so I have just kept the heater on medium constantly when it is running. that is not going to be a very good solution when it turns to summer. I do not want to have the heater running in my van on a hot day to keep from overheating. I know I have not been very descriptive but I just got the van. I have only had it happen a hand full of times before I noticed it only happens with the heater off. I would like to fix it not just bandage it running the heater. where do I start? I am far from a mechanic so in language I can understand please help me with any suggestions or ideas. thank guys.
Jan 29, 2018 at 4:05 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
HARRY P
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 2,292 POSTS
Start with checking to make sure that the cooling fan is coming on. If not, then that is a starting point. Also, make sure that your car has enough coolant in it.

Let us know and we will go from there.
Jan 29, 2018 at 9:08 PM
Add a reply
Join 2CarPros for free, one of the most advanced car repair communities on the internet. From first-time drivers to seasoned mechanics, everyone is welcome to reply, share details, and get better answers. You can add a temporary image or video first; uploads are limited to 20 MB.

Frequently Asked Problems for This Vehicle