Engine is running hot

2003 FORD TAURUS
180,000 MILES • 6 CYL
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NICOLEM73118
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The temperature gauge went to red. Pulled over let cool made it home.
Replaced thermostat. What should I try next?
Feb 25, 2022 at 10:48 AM
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SQM
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Hello,

An engine can overheat due to a number of factors.
It could be a stuck closed thermostat (you have already replaced), bad water pump, faulty radiator, inoperative cooling fan, clog in the cooling system. It can also overheat due to being low on coolant.

Now is it still overheating after the thermostat replacement?

First make sure the coolant is at the correct level. One of the easy items you can check is the cooling fan. Check to see if the fan comes on when the engine is at operating temperature.

Take a look at this guide, it covers the typical overheating issues:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/engine-overheating-or-running-hot

Go through the guide and let me know what you find or if you have any questions.

I have attached the cooling system diagram below.

Thank you.
Feb 25, 2022 at 12:10 PM