Visual Inspection: Notes

If the cooling system problem is not caused by a driving condition, perform a visual inspection to determine if there was a recent service or accident repair, including the following:

• Loose/damaged water pump drive belt
• Incorrect cooling system refilling (trapped air or low level)
• Brakes possibly dragging.
• Damaged hoses
• Loose/damaged hose clamps
• Damaged/incorrect engine thermostat
• Damaged cooling fan motor, fan blade and fan shroud
• Damaged head gasket
• Damaged water pump
• Damaged radiator
• Damaged coolant recovery system
• Damaged heater core
• Open/shorted electrical circuits

If the visual inspection reveals none of the above as cause for a cooling system complaint, refer to the following diagnostic charts.