1993 Honda Accord overheating

**jahsh420** · 02-12-04, 11:25 AM

My accord recently started overheating. The radiator is full, there isn't smoke coming out from the engine, and there aren't any leaks that I can see. My question is how do I figure out why this is overheating? I don't want to just start replacing things because I have run into problems in the past doing this. How can I tell if this is a faulty thermostat or a bad water pump or something else? Any help is greatly appreciated!! Thanks.

**Hondapower10a** · 02-12-04, 12:43 PM

First, ask yourself if the water pump has ever been changed, and if so, when. Check make sure that your temperature sensor is working correctly or see if there's a loose wire. Fiddling around the engine compartment could have knocked something loose. More than likely its the thermostat.

Thermostats are easy to replace, inexpensive and go out with much more regularity than a water pump would. If the thermostat isn't opening up, its preventing the water from circulating and thereby cooling the engine (but you already knew that part, I'm sure.)

My money would be on the thermostat. Besides you can test it. Take out the thermostat and put it in cold water on the stove. as the water comes to a boil, you should see the thermostat opening up. If it works ok, then prepare yourself for a repair bill if you don't want to DIY.

**jahsh420** · 02-12-04, 02:47 PM

Thanks for the response. I figured the thermostat is a good place to start, but I have run into problems when I start assuming what is actually wrong and spend $$ on things I dont need. For $20 I can get a new thermostat so I will try that. I haven't replaced the waterpump and have had the car for 4 years. I guess that would be the second option. Ill start with the thermostat. Thanks again for the response.

**GenXer** · 02-12-04, 09:11 PM

Also make sure the cooling fan is running when the engine gets warm. If not, it could be a fan relay or the fan itself.

Next time you change the timing belt, make sure to get the water pump replaced, too.

**Mr Hyde** · 02-12-04, 09:15 PM

Try the thermostat first. Its the cheapest, and most common cause for overheating problems.

Just dont drive around with the car overheating like that. It will cause the headgasket to blow, and possibley warp the head, which is a seriously large repair bill.