Running hot and smoking

2003 CADILLAC CTS
178,134 MILES • V8 • 2WD
Avatar
MISSCAREYBABY
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
My car is running hot even when heater is not on. And no antifreeze in floorboard. It has clean oil and plenty of water. help please.
Dec 31, 2017 at 2:28 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
ASEMASTER6371
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 52,796 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Good evening.

You may have a thermostat that is stuck closed. If it does not open, no coolant will circulate and the motor will run very hot.

Roy
Dec 31, 2017 at 3:04 PM
Avatar
PATENTED_REPAIR_PRO
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 1,853 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Make sure the electric cooling fan/s run when the engine gets hot.
Dec 31, 2017 at 3:08 PM
Avatar
MISSCAREYBABY
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
The hoses are not hard when I squeezed them.
Dec 31, 2017 at 5:09 PM
Avatar
ASEMASTER6371
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 52,796 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
okay, is the engine cold or hot?

Roy
Dec 31, 2017 at 5:17 PM
Avatar
PATENTED_REPAIR_PRO
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 1,853 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
If the engine is hot and the hoses are soft, you have air in the system. First make sure the cooling system is full when cold so be careful when opening the cap, let it cool back down for an hour or two first.
Dec 31, 2017 at 5:50 PM
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.
Ask a Free Question
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.