* When the car is cold, look at the radiator overflow.
* Open the radiator cap and look inside the radiator.
* If the radiator is empty, fill with antifreeze or water, and close the cap. The overheating problem may be caused by problems.
* Flush the radiator if it is not empty but the water is rusty. You may need a new radiator if that does not correct the problem.
* If it is leaking, flush the radiator and treat with a commercial radiator sealant. You may need a new radiator if this does not correct the problem.
* Look at both the lower and upper radiator hoses located at the top and bottom of the radiator on the backside and held by hose clamps.
* Make sure the hoses are securely clamped to the radiator and are not leaking.
* See a mechanic if the car is still overheating.
Perform a Radiator Flush
Your car's radiator needs to be clean to be cool. As time goes on, your car's radiator builds solid deposits that can clog the cooling system. A quick, inexpensive radiator flush can keep the system in shape.
Before you start your radiator flush, make sure you have everything you need. There's nothing worse than draining your radiator only to realize that you need to drive to the auto store for something!
What you'll need to perform a radiator flush:
* Phillips head screwdriver or wrench (whichever your radiator drain requires)
* Cloth rag
* Radiator Flush solution
* Coolant
* Funnel
* Used coolant receptacle
*Be sure to let your engine cool completely before you loosen or remove the radiator cap. Hot coolant can be painful!
