PING: FOFC Car people

[Suburban Rhythm]

Having a car issue.

Last weekend, got the car inspected. During the inspection, they suggested a coolant flush. The car is 9 years old, never had it done prior, so I agreed.

For the rest of the week, the car went, max, about 15-20 mins one way, plus it's been cold and rainy here.

Today, it's about 80, and had the car out for awhlie, including trip home about 2:30 driving 45 mins straight thru.

I notice something stinks...I look at the thermometer...up past H. Luckily, we were blocks from home, made it here, popped the hood. After letting it sit about 20 minutes, I pop the coolant resevoir, try adding a little water. It didn't run out the bottom, I figure that is a good sign. Go to add a touch more coolant, and it comes out over the top, so I know it's full.

So...what says FOFC? something up with the thermostat maybe? Something blocking the line somewhere?

Of course while the place is open til 5:00 today, they aren't sure they can look at it, so I am most likely dropping it off Monday morning.

[Philliesfan980]

I had this problem happen to a car about 10 years ago, and it was the thermostat, which is a relatively cheap job. It happened immediately after a coolant flush at one of those quick lube places as well.

Apparently, the flush machine that they hook up to the car can really do some damage to the thermostat. After that, I've never done a coolant "flush" again, but just a drain and fill.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Thanks...this makes the most sense to me, since never an issue prior, and this was the first time I ever had it flushed as well.

And I agree. Next time just leaving it alone, and top off as needed.

[Philliesfan980]

Thanks...this makes the most sense to me, since never an issue prior, and this was the first time I ever had it flushed as well.

And I agree. Next time just leaving it alone, and top off as needed.

Well, I think it's still a good idea having it completely drained and filled (literally just letting it drain out instead of hooking it up to a machine for the "flush" process) in accordance with your user manual.