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Pinpoint Test B: The Engine Overheats: Testing

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Mercury Montego, 2005 Ford Freestyle, and 2005 Ford Five Hundred. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
  1. B1 CHECK THE ENGINE COOLANT LEVEL 
    NOTE: If the engine is hot, allow the engine to cool before proceeding.
    • Key in OFF position.
      WARNING: Never remove the pressure relief cap while the engine is operating or when the cooling system is hot. Failure to follow these instructions can result in damage to the cooling system or engine or personal injury. To avoid having scalding hot coolant or steam blow out of the degas bottle when removing the pressure relief cap, wait until the engine has cooled, then wrap a thick cloth around the pressure relief cap and turn it slowly. Step back while the pressure is released from the cooling system. When you are sure all the pressure has been released, turn and remove the pressure relief cap (still with a cloth).

      Check the engine coolant level at the degas bottle.

    • Is the engine coolant OK? 
    • Yes  : GO to B2.
    • No  : REFILL the engine coolant at the degas bottle. GO to PINPOINT TEST A .
  2. B2 CHECK THE COOLANT CONDITION 
    • Check the coolant for dirt, rust or contamination.
    • Is the coolant condition OK? 
  3. B3 CHECK FOR AN AIRFLOW OBSTRUCTION 
    • Inspect the A/C condenser core and radiator for obstructions such as leaves or dirt.
    • Is there an obstruction? 
    • Yes  : REMOVE the obstruction. CLEAN the A/C condenser core and radiator. TEST the system for normal operation.
    • No  : GO to B4.
  4. B4 CHECK THE THERMOSTAT OPERATION 
    • Key in START position.

      Start the engine and allow the engine to run for 10 minutes.

    • Key in OFF position.
    • Feel the upper and lower radiator hose.
    • Are the upper and lower radiator hoses cold? 
    • Yes  : CARRY OUT the Thermostat  component tests.
    • No  : GO to B5.
  5. B5 CHECK THE COOLING FAN OPERATION 
    • Using the diagnostic tool, cycle the cooling fans to the HIGH and LOW positions.
    • Do the cooling fans operate? 
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