Visual Inspection
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 accessory 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 radiator fan motor, fan blade and fan shroud
- Damaged head gasket
- Damaged water pump
- Damaged radiator
- Damaged coolant recovery system
- Damaged heater core
If the visual inspection reveals none of the above as cause for a cooling system complaint, refer to the following diagnostic charts.