Car keeps overheating and can’t figure out why

Asked by Jennifer Jul 23, 2024 at 02:16 AM about the 2008 Mercury Milan V6

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

Temperature gage stays on cold, but car overheats
after running for a few minutes then doesn’t want to
crank again once it gets hot. Changed out bad
alternator before most of these issues started. I just
changed out the thermostat and mass airflow sensor
to see if that would fix the issue, but it’s still doing the
same thing.

4 Answers

Hoepfully you dont have a cracked block or head from it running hot. If not check the the following 1. Check all radiator hoses for cracks 2. Check overflow reservoir tank for cracks 3. Check the radiator itself for cracks look for crusty white residue if you see any then look fro a heavy concentration near the problem area. Lastly will the radiator with 50/50 antifreeze turn the car on and wait for it to begin to run hot. If it's leaking you will see and and find your source. Hope this helps.

2,285

Check to make sure your temp gauge is hooked up. How long have you had the car? Is this a new to you car or a new problem?

157,215

Sounds like the coolant temperature sensor is disconnected. When this happens the gauge on the dash will stay on cold but since the computer has lost the signal from the coolant temperature sensor it will assume the engine is overheating and take steps to avoid serious engine damage. The air conditioning will be disabled and the radiator cooling fans will be on high speed, among other things. Check the wiring going to the cooling temperature sensor for damage or being disconnected. If the wiring checks out good, replace the coolant temperature sensor. Jim

39,855

Was johnny jerk wrench working on your car ? Some times people think they're intelligent and get bad ideas

Your Answer:

Milan

Looking for a Used Milan in your area?

CarGurus has thousands of nationwide listings and the tools to find you a great deal.

Postal Code:

CarGurus Experts

  • #1
    BoholMark
    Reputation
    270
  • #2
    GuruT3P8R
    Reputation
    170
  • #3
    tuff4x4
    Reputation
    130
View All

Find great deals from top-rated dealers

Search

Related Models For Sale

Used Chevrolet Malibu
47 Great Deals out of 1,274 listings starting at $1,495
Used Chevrolet Malibu
47 Great Deals out of 1,274 listings starting at $1,495
Used Dodge Avenger
3 Great Deals out of 33 listings starting at $1,999

Content submitted by Users is not endorsed by CarGurus, does not express the opinions of CarGurus, and should not be considered reviewed, screened, or approved by CarGurus. Please refer to CarGurus Terms of Use. Content will be removed if CarGurus becomes aware that it violates our policies.