QuestionI just bought an Eclipse that seems to overheat all the time. I have to refill the coolant all the time because the coolant seems to be leaking but i dont know where. Bubbles come up through the coolant of the reservoir when engine is running. I replaced the thermostat, so that isn't the problem. When running hot, the level of coolant in the reservoir raises to the top causing the coolant to come out of the discharge tube and the cap on the reservoir. Bubbles go through the coolant even if car is cool. Answers on how to get air out of system and help keep car cool would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.
AnswerKyle,
Overheating and coolant bubbling out can be caused by a number of reasons. Aside from the thermostat, this could be caused by a bad water pump, worn radiator cap, improper water/anti-freeze mixture, the radiator fans are not turning on, or even a clogged of ineffiecent radiator.
Removing air from the cooling system, also referred to as 'burping', can be performed pretty easily and there are several procedures on the internet. You can even get a service manual for your eclipse at any major auto parts store for around $10-$15. Here is a general procedure;
1. (Let the car cool completely) Remove the radiator cap and drain all the coolant from your radiator. Set your heater control in your car all the way to the HOT level.
2. Remove the overflow tank and drain it out. Put it back in after its drained.
3. In a large bucket, mix a gallon of new anti-freeze with a gallon of distilled water.
4. Slowly pour that mixture into your engine where the radiator cap is. Once it appears fully, squeeze the upper radiator hose slowy to 'burp' air out of the system.
5. Once the you got all the bubbles out and cannot fill it any more, start your engine and let it run. LEAVE THE RADIATOR CAP OFF
6. As the engine reaches normal operating temp, coolant will start to flow throughout the system. You'll need to continously top off the fluid level at the radiator cap and continue burping it.
7. Once you get to the point where no more bubbles come out and you no longer have to fill it. Turn off the engine. Let it cool completely. Top off the level at the radiator cap as it cool.
8. Once it's cooled completely, put the radiator cap back on, and fill the overflow tank to the COOL level.
Drive the car around so your engine gets up to the normal operating temperature, and see if you continue to have the overheat problem. If you do, have your mechanic inspect the other components I had listed earlier.
Good luck!
