2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser

2001 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER
98,300 MILES • 4 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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KEYAWOODS
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About 3 weeks ago I noticed that my car has been running hot. While I am driving it is fine, but when I stop at a red light or at a drive through window it runs hot. I have also noticed a burning smell coming from underneath the hood. I am not sure where to even begin and being a woman as soon as I go to a mechanic they get excited so that they can rip me off as they have been doing. Please let me know where I should begin in this matter. Thanks for all of your help
Jul 19, 2008 at 12:42 PM
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DOCFIXIT
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Open hood engine running do the cooling fans come on right behind radiator between engine?
Turn AC on do fans come on ?
Let me know
Jul 19, 2008 at 12:56 PM
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KEYAWOODS
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The fan does come on
Jul 19, 2008 at 1:16 PM
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DOCFIXIT
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Any coolant loss?
Notice any white smoke from tailpipe on A.M. start up?
Has system been flushed and refilled recently?
Jul 19, 2008 at 1:22 PM
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KEYAWOODS
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there is no coolant loss or white smoke from tail pipe. I think system flush was done in February 2008
Jul 19, 2008 at 1:25 PM
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DOCFIXIT
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Does your gague go to hot? or is it the smell that makes you think it is hot? if so an oil leak on the exhaust will cause this. Like valve cover
Do you see any signs oil is on the engine?
Jul 19, 2008 at 1:34 PM
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KEYAWOODS
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oil could very well be on the engine there was an oil leak that was fixed a few months ago but the engine was never washed off. However, trhe gauge does go to hot
Jul 19, 2008 at 1:43 PM
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DOCFIXIT
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The fan not comming on is 99% always the problem.
Next time you drive make sure fan is on it could be an intermittent failue of the relay. Only thing I can think of is radiator cooling ability reduced. Is there leaves etc. blocking air flow? do you have one of those buig screens on the front?
Jul 19, 2008 at 1:55 PM