Inspection Procedure 2: Engine Overheating: Diagnosis

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

STEP 1. Remove the radiator cap and check for coolant contamination.
Q: Is the coolant contaminated with rust and oil?
1. YES: Replace it. Refer to ENGINE COOLANT REPLACEMENT < 2. 4 L ENGINE > < 2.4 L Engine > or ENGINE COOLANT REPLACEMENT < 3.0 L ENGINE > < 3.0 L Engine >.
2. NO: There is no action to be taken. Go to Step 2.
STEP 2. Check the radiator cap valve opening pressure.
NOTE: Be sure that the cap is clean before testing. Rust or other foreign material on the cap seal will cause an improper reading.
1. Use a cap adapter to attach the cap to the tester.
2. Increase the pressure until the gauge indicator stops moving.
  Minimum limit: 83 kPa (12 psi)
  
  Standard value: 93 - 123 kPa (14 - 18 psi)
Q: Does the reading remain at or above the minimum limit?
1. YES: Go to Step 3.
2. NO: Replace the radiator cap. Then go to Step 5.
  
  Fig 1: Checking Radiator Cap Valve Opening Pressure
STEP 3. Check thermostat operation.
Refer to THERMOSTAT CHECK .

Q: Does the thermostat operate correctly?
1. YES: Go to Step 4.
2. NO: Replace the thermostat, then go to Step 5.
STEP 4. Check the drive belt for slippage or damage.
Refer to DRIVE BELT (FOR THE GENERATOR, WATER PUMP AND POWER STEERING PUMP) (CHECK CONDITION) .

Q: Is the drive belt loose or damaged?
1. YES: Adjust or replace the drive belt, then go to Step 5.
2. NO: There is no action to be taken.
STEP 5. Retest the system.
Check the engine coolant temperature.

Q: Is the engine coolant temperature abnormally high?
1. YES: Return to Step 2.
2. NO: The procedure is complete.