Volkswagen: 1997 Volkwagen Polo Classic 1.6i, volkwagen polo, oil filler cap

Question
Hi, I am from Pietermaritzburg in South Africa. My dads Polo had a water leak on the water flange on the front of the engine. The o-ring was almost completely worn due to some sort of pink corrosive substance. I subsequently replaced the flange and it stopped leaking. Filled up the radiator and water bottle etc. I used the car for about 287 Kms on the freeway and the water temp stayed normal, between 70 and 100.  The outside temp varied. My dad used to car to work and it was in start and stop traffic so I don't think he even got out of 2nd gear. He phoned and stated that there was alot of steam being emitted from the side of the water bottle where I presume it has some sort of drain. When I got there the bottle was empty. Refilled and I used the car after that. What could be the problem. Is the head gasket blown, I checked the water content and even the dip-stick and the oil filler cap, there is no noticeable water/oil mix.

Answer
Hi Kaylan,

This does not sound like a head-gasket.

The two following items could be the problem:

- The thermostat could be gummed up with the same pink corrosive gunk you mentioned, I'd suggest replacing it.

- Are the fan(s) in the front of the car functioning properly?  Typically if the car is overheating at idle (or stop and go) it could mean there is little to no air flow to the radiator, causing your 'boil-over'.

Let's look at these items first.   

Let me know how you make out.

Best of luck,

Ron