Overheating Problem

[tl278]

I have a 2001 S80 that was overheating and loosing coolant. I found a crack in both the expansion tank and cap, so I replaced both of those. I am not loosing anymore coolant, but the car is still overheating. (It does run at normal temperature and doesn't overheat if I drive with the heater on high, but with temps of 100 this summer that really isn't an option). The check engine light is on, but the only code is for the cat. converter, I wouldn't think this would cause the overheating, but could it? Other ideas on where the problem might be??

[billofdurham]

Welcome to Matthew's Volvo Site.

Is the radiator cooling fan working?

Bill.

[tl278]

it is. thanks,

[JDS60R]

Sounds like a flow issue.

2 of the most common are

Air Flow - rad fan does not kick in or does not kick in at full speed or
obstructions in front or the rad prevent air flow

Coolant flow - many times as a thermostat is failing it opens late and not all the way. The coolant flow is then restricted. or
internal flow (this is more rare) the rad is filled with contamination removing the ability to cool or the pump has spun the impeller free from the shaft (extremely rare on a Volvo).

It looks like you checked the airflow already. If you pull the top rad hose and remove the thermostat( then put hose back on and connect to a hose going in a bucket) to see the coolant flow. If its low - check the pump -if its fine then replace the thermostat with an OEM or similar quality stat. Volvo coolant and distilled water are suggested.

If the coolant looks polluted you may want to check it for combustion gases.

[tl278]

Thanks for the advice. I will check that out.

[trtvolvo]

Just wanted to whine - coolant cap offered for $6 by Volvo parts specialist advertising on this forum (vs. the $40 I paid at the dealer - banging my head on the desk, why me so stupid sometimes...).