Taking Care of the Unexpected
236
If the High Coolant Temperature
Indicator Lights
Normally, the high coolant temperature indicator will only light
momentarily when you turn the ignition ON (q). Occasionally, it may
flicker at or near idling speed.
High coolant temperature may be caused by restriction of air flow to
the radiator (such as mud caked on the radiator), extended idling, an
oil leak, a coolant leak, a low oil level, a low coolant level, or
extended operation under adverse conditions.
If the all sections of the coolant temperature gauge including
segment H and high coolant temperature indicator are on while
you’re driving, don’t ignore it. Pull safely to a stop. Stop the engine
as soon as it’s safe to do so, and let it cool.
Continuing to drive with high coolant temperature or an overheated
engine can cause serious engine damage.
• A steaming engine indicates a coolant leak. Shut the engine off
and wait
until the steaming stops. Look for a leak, but don’
t
to
uch the engine or radiator system. Let everything cool off first.
• Check for any restriction of air flow to the radiator.
• If there’s no obvious problem, leave the engine on so the fan an
d
coo
lant circulating system can continue working. Monitor th
e
coolant temperature gauge and high coolant temperature
indica
tor. The coolant temperature gauge and indicator ma
y
ret
urn to normal after a brief stop with no load on the engine.
• Check the radiator fan.
If the fan is not working, turn the engine off. Remove the battery
cover (page 204) and check the radiator fan fuse. If the fuse
is
blown, replace it with the proper (same rating) spare fuse. Start
th
e engine. If the all sections of the coolant temperature gaug
e
inc
luding segment H and high cool
ant temperature indicator stay
on, turn the engine off.
If the radiator fan is working, visually check the coolant level
in
th
e reserve tank, located under the front hood. It isn’t necessary
to touch the radiator system.
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