Reader QuestionI have a 2000 Dodge Dakota Sport and she is driving my insane. She was running hot, coolant pouring out. I took her in. Water pump replaced, radiator cap replaced.
She was doing fine and then out of the blue today she overheated while I was driving to work for the second time today. I was going about 70 and the temp maxed out. The gate guard said it smelled like the thermostat was stuck. I am going bald from the frustration. Please help me!!!
Laura
Hi there Laura,Keep your hair intact, this is probably not as bad as you think. Since this last overheating issue happened at freeway speeds I would be highly suspect of a radiator that is clogged up with rust and junk at the bottom.
When radiators get stopped up, you can NOT "flush" the problem out. A new radiator is the only way to correct the issue....and a new after market radiator from your local auto parts place is half the price of a new radiator from Dodge.
A good mechanic should ALWAYS first pressure test the cooling system for leaks, if no leaks they can feel the radiator (when the engine is hot) and see if the top of the radiator is hotter than the bottom of the radiator...which would indicate a restriction. Most repair shops use these new infrared laser thermometers, which can really help pinpoint overheating restrictions.
Thermostats do fail, although it is not very common these days, but they are cheap and easy to replace if you want to just try a new one and see what happens.
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