Q: Car overheats in slow traffic or going uphill

asked by on January 11, 2017

I've replaced ECT ,fan switch , fans , thermostat. What could it possibly be? I was told head gasket but I don't want to put that much money for nothing. Although I do have an oil leak

My car has 148000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

You did not mention if you are losing coolant or there is a leak in the cooling system. You may have a leaking head gasket and would need to have the cooling system pressure tested to see if the head gasket is leaking or you need a water pump from low flow in the cooling system from worn out fins on the water pump. The pump may be needed if no head gasket leaks are found during testing.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Overcharging 18volts +
The shop was correct about how the ECU controls the field current of the alternator which will cause the alternator to charge the batteries. If the wire on pin 57, the dark green with orange stripe wire at the ECU,...
Car won't start after stopping it at gas station
There are a couple of possibilities. Jeep has a TSB out concerning a faulty front control module, but this will also generally be accompanied by the windshield wipers not working as well when the no start occurs. It only affects...
Seat belt won't release
Most vehicles second and third row seat belts have a ratchet feature that is intended for use with child car seats. This ratchet mechanism is engaged by pulling the seat belt out as far as it can go then releasing...
Dashboard lights not working
Hello, you can turn the service lights off by disconnecting the negative battery cable for a few hours. To help find the pulled wire, have the dealership or technician use a scan tool capable of diagnosing canbus lines. The test will...
Hello, I just got my front lower ball joints and control arms replaced today, but I am now experiencing a tinking sound.
The most obvious possibility is damage to the CV joint during control arm replacement. In your application, the CV joint and boot will be impacted unless precautions are taken when the ball joint is separated from the steering knuckle. Indeed,...
How much and how long motor mount replacement for 2003 Kia Sedona LX minvan
Hello there. In order to provide you with an accurate estimate, we need to collect some additional information about your location and your Kia. Please click this link to request a price quote for an engine mount replacement (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/engine-mount-replacement). You...
99 for f150 starts then shuts off immediately
Hi There, I would suggest checking the idle air control valve to be sure it is not sticking. The idle air control valve (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/idle-control-valve-replacement) monitors the air intake as it is mixed with fuel prior to being injected into the...
Feels like front tires are locked up rubbing grinding now
If the vehicle is 4 wheel drive, it sounds like it could be stuck in 4WD. Another possibility may be that the differential i stuck in the locked state if it is equipped with this option. Lastly, you may want...
The rpm in my truck is high while I'm in first gear then drops to normal once i accelerate
Hi Michael. Thanks for contacting us today. A high idle speed while not in gear is often caused by a faulty idle control valve or vacuum leak. It would probably be best to have a mechanic diagnose this issue correctly...

Related articles

A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 Honda CR-V
The The fourth generation Honda CR-V was unveiled in 2012 with a total redesign. One of America’s favorite compact SUVs got a new look and a lot of great new features, including an all-wheel drive (AWD) option, as well as...
A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 Honda Odyssey
Minivans Minivans may not be the sportiest, sleekest, or sexiest vehicles on the road, and people in the market for a vehicle to haul all of their kids, pets, and gear around may not be too preoccupied with how that...
The Best Used Cars to Buy If You’re Single
When When you’re buying a vehicle that needs to meet the requirements of all kinds of passengers the process can prove to be rather tricky. However, if you happen to be single, you’re the one in control, and your list...