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1998 Honda Civic

Question: Why is my car overheating while idle?

Question

Visitor, 1.6L 4 Cylinder, Plano, TX, September 25, 2010, 14:03

Whenever I am idling (such as during heavy traffic or when the car is on but in park) my car will begin to overheat, and I have to turn it off. I've had a sensor and the thermostat replaced, but they only worked for a few weeks and my car would start to overheat again. I don't know of any trusted mechanics. Can anyone help?

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  • Answer #1

    Visitor, October 07, 2010, 07:50

    If your car doesn't lose any coolant, there are possible problems:
    1. Temperature sender reads the coolant temp incorectly.
    2. Radiator cap

    Note: I suggest to buy a genuine temperature gauge sender and high temperature thread sealant when installing.

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    Visitor, November 03, 2010, 11:39

    Mine is in the Honda shop right now for that. The problem comes from a failed head gasket....I'll update when I get the repairs done and car back.

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    Visitor, November 23, 2010, 15:29

    Did you get it back yet?

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    Visitor, November 29, 2010, 08:43

    Did you see any white smoke and stink smell coming out from the exhaust pipe? And did you check that your car loses any amount of coolant?
    If none of the above occurs, it is certain NOT a failed head gasket and it is very expensive to fix. I hope that the dealer does not cheat you!

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