When I shut the car off the tank boils over and I lose coolant

Tiny
DANNYNASO
  • MEMBER
  • 2002 SATURN SC2
  • 1.9L
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 248,000 MILES
When the coolant tank is full, the car temperature seems to be fine. As soon as I shut the car off the coolant starts to boil in the coolant tank and I lose coolant. Also when idling the temperature tends to go up to a little over half way. No apparent leaks when the car is running except from the coolant after I shut it off. Radiator is about 4 years old, fan is new, water pump is about 6 months old, coolant tank replaced 4 months ago, thermostat is about 11 months old (got another thermostat since it was under warranty, replacement pending). What to do?
Sunday, August 11th, 2019 AT 6:57 PM

1 Reply

Tiny
DANNY L
  • MECHANIC
  • 5,648 POSTS
Hello, I'm Danny.

Just quick question first. Have you tested the radiator cap? I know it sounds basic but if not holding pressure that would cause boiling over into the overflow tank.Here is a tutorial on how to pressure check.Most auto parts stores have a tool loaner program will rent you one.The tester comes with an adapter to test the radiator cap.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/radiator-pressure-test

Hope this helps and thanks for using 2CarPros.

Danny-
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Sunday, August 11th, 2019 AT 8:47 PM

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