My 1997 subaru impreza outback is overheating over 335,000 miles.
What is your question?
My car overheats alot I thought my thermostat was bad so I took it out. It was bad it wouldn't open in a wood stove more or less. Someone told me during the summer you dont really need one so I never put one back in it yet. It was doing good for about 2 weeks then started overheating the same as it did before on the highway it only starts to over heat when you drop under 60 mph but when I drive it even if it doesnt get really hot I have to at a little water everytime. It has gotten death hot once or twice when I was in the city surrounded by traffic where I couldn't really help it. The water pump was changed by my father when he had it about 2 years ago. I put stop leak in the radiator not sure what brand but it was orange didnt help none. I'm no real stranger to working on vehicles of any sort but I am far from professional. Any help would be greatly appreciated thank you in advance.
What makes this problem better or worse?
She doesnt like going slow so I adapted a lead foot to accommodate.
How long has your 1997 Subaru Impreza had this problem?
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First off, replace the thermostat. After that make sure you engine fan is working and that the radiator and condenser are not dirty and clogged up on the outside. If they are use a degreaser like simple green to soak them and a hose to wash them clean.
Alex
Failed head gaskets are a common problem on these vehicles - you're very fortunate to have gotten that many miles on it - recommend a combustion leak test .. IF head gasket failure is proven to be the problem - you may want to consider purchasing another vehicle.
Good luck!
Removing the thermostat is never a good idea - coolant will actually circulate too fast and not get cooled by the radiator!