Hey all,

I have a 1990 Accord LX with 72k miles on it. Starting the other day, I've noticed that when I am sitting still at idle, the temperature gauge slowly rises and the second I start moving or rev the engine, the temperature drops back down to normal quickly.

I know both fans work as they come on when the A/C is on, and I can hear them running after I shut the car off. There are no coolant leaks anywhere, coolant is full, and the oil is clean meaning no head gasket leaks.

I'm thinking it may be a failing water pump but I'd like to see what you all think as I just bought this car 3 months ago and haven't quite figured out all the quirks with it.

Thanks!

 

Whether or not the fans come on only when the ac is on is only relevant to the extent that the fan motors aren't burned out.

The issue is whether the fans are coming on when the ac is not on. If not, then you should look to replace the "fan switch."

 

Well I did more testing last night and discovered that the passenger side fan does not turn on when the engine is running. However, it turns on once the engine is turned off. I'm thinking there is a switch or sensor somewhere that has failed. Is there a specific one I should look for?

 

Go to the parts store and tell them your year make and model and ask for the "fan switch"...or you can go to honda and get it...which is what I would recommend. It's best to buy Honda cooling system parts.

Then you will use a 19mm box wrench to take off the old and put the new one back on.

It will be part number 14 in this illustration

http://www.hondapartscheap.com/parts...ine/water-pump