Car overheated now it won't start.
I have a 98 Ford Contour. My car randomly shut
down on me in a parking lot and I went to check
under the hood of what might've happened. My
coolant was empty so I put what I had left in the
tank and drove it home. The next day I put 2 full
containers of coolant in my car and was good for
the next day. I went driving and my car started to
overheat and noticed my tank was already empty.
So I've already diagnosed I have a leak. I'm sure it's
the radiator. Anyway, after I let it cool down I drove
it for a few miles and got stuck on the side of the
highway. Engine was smoking so again I let it cool
down for an hour and a half with the heat on full
blast and a guy pulled over and helped me put
water in the coolant tank. Restarted my car and got
a mile down the road to a gas station. Car
overheated super fast and white smoke was coming
from the bottom of the car. I'm assuming it was the
water evaporating. I tried to crank my car after
letting it sit. It wanted to go but wouldn't turn over.
So I called a tow. After I got back I went to check
my car one last time before giving up for the day.
My car didn't do anything at all. My battery was still
going but it was a lot weaker. I've been
troubleshooting for days and don't want to spend
money on a mechanic I'd rather just buy parts and
do it myself. So I'm thinking the alternator? Radiator
leak, the serpentine belt possibly needs replaced
and maybe a new battery. Any input would be
greatly appreciated.