Civic-Kids

96 civic ex (STOCK)


just a weeks ago, I was putting more coolant in my car. today temperature was almost red n sometime it move up n down (below red)... got home n let it sit for a while, i check coolant n it was empty... refill coolant and it seem like there no leak... any help?

no white smoke from exhuast... and it been happening for a few while now (this is my 3th time happening)

Former User

Top off the coolant in the radiator and reservoir and then let the engine idle. When the engine eventually gets hot on the dash gauge, does the radiator fan run? Is the lower radiator hose much cooler than the upper one? Do you see any coolant overflowing the reservoir or leaking from the radiator cap or below the engine? Is white smoke coming out of the exhaust pipe?

Civic-Kids

the fan does run.. no white smoke... no overflowing the reservoir or leaking from the radiator cap.
yes the lower radiator hose much cooler than the upper one

Civic-Kids

anyone?

Former User

Well, let me restate my original question. Does the lower radiator hose remain cool when the upper one is still hot? If so, the thermostat may be stuck closed.

As you are losing coolant, you may want to replace the radiator cap. Continue to look carefully for the source of the coolant loss.

Civic-Kids

the bottom hose is cool (not as hot as the top). i replace my radiator cap couple week ago (bought it from kragen)... still the same problem

Former User

Have you replaced the thermostat?

leoaa777

Cooling system is very easy to diagnose.

It is just hoses, radiator, fans, thermostat.

Hoses leak? No ..go on
Radiator cracked? No..go on
Fans kick in? Yes..go on
Thermostat working? --> Buy a new one regardless. They are cheap anyways.

MHDesigns

Thermostats cost under ten bux. It's a simple replacement. You should do it for good measure. Sounds like you prolly have a leaky line if you have to keep refilling. Just run the car and watch for leaks. When you see the dripping follow the fluid flow to the source of the problem. Replace whatever hose is cracked.

Make sure you bleed the coolant though. Place the car on jacks with the front up. Turn it on and let it run with no radiator cap on.(Make sure coolant is full) Turn your heater blower to high. When the thermostat opens the fans will kick on allowing you to add more coolant to the radiator. Add it. Lower the car. Test drive.

TLo

if there is a leak its usually noticable esp. in your situation since you are losing alot of water but its just as leoaa77 said, check it in that order