I keep getting low on water, and my engine overheats.

I don't see any leaks in the radiator or anything, and "snot" keeps forming under my oil cap. Also, if air comes out of the valve cover when I open up my oil cap when it's running, does that mean my rings are shot?

Is this a cracked head or blown headgasket problem of some sort? Am I burning water?

I just went to the car wash, and it overheated only when idling, but when I give it gas and all that, it doesn't seem to overheat..

WTF is wrong with this car...

I want to rebuild it, but I'm on a budget and this is my only ride, I don't know where to start..

 

first, check your radiator cap to see if any pressure/steam is escaping from the radiator, and your water pump may be going out since when you gas your motor, the temp goes down. not really shore. but hey.. worth a try..

 

otherwise i would say headgasket but if not that i would say check your thermostate (sp)

 

Have you made sure all the air was bled out of the system? I'd suggest going and having a cooling system pressure test done. IYou can get them done at Midas. My store doesnt charge for them usually, but I think most others charge $20.00.