Possible overheating problem

HONDACHICK90

MEMBER
2004 DODGE STRATUS
2.4L
4 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
238,000 MILES

We have the car listed above SXT model. We recently changed the thermostat and bled the air out. Did this about a week ago. Been doing fine up until yesterday. My temperature gauge normally reads right below half. Well, it began raising a little over half and then going back down to normal. Driving home it continued and would raise a little higher each time. Also I started losing heat during this time. I would make it kick down a gear and let off the gas and the temperature would drop back to normal and I'd have heat.

We will be checking the thermostat again to make sure it did not seize. Any other idea?

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,885 POSTS

Hi,

The idea that you lose heat indicates there is no coolant flowing, or at least not enough. Since the problem was gone for a couple weeks, are you certain that the coolant level is still low? That will cause it. When the engine is cold, open the radiator as well and check the level.

If it is low, first check for leaks. Here is a link you may find helpful:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/coolant-leak-symptoms

If you find the coolant is full, take a look through this link. We could have a head gasket related issue.

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

Let me know what you find or if you have other questions.

Take care and God Bless.

Joe