Wonky temperature gauge and no heat

[zanderch]

Hey guys. I just bought an 89 Camry V6 about a month ago, and it's been relatively problem free until yesterday when the temperature got real cold (I'm up in Alberta, Canada, and it's about -35 C). I don't really know alot about cars or mechanics, but the first thing I noticed was the heater stopped working. Even after running for 20-30 minutes, it still blew cold air inside the car even though the temperature gauge was in the middle. Then today I noticed the temperature gauge went all the way to H (all the way to the right) after it had been just sitting on the driveway warming up. Then in the last couple hours, whenever I'd go to start the car, it would start up then die immediately, as if it was stalling. I don't know was the problem is, could that possibly be the radiator? Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

Alex

[Skiermang]

How's your coolant level? Can you see coolant in the radiator when you open the rad cap when it's cold?

[zanderch]

I looked in it, and it's just above the FULL line, and I donno what it's supposed to look like, but it's greyish brownish, and there's a little bit of slush in it, like a melting slurpee.

[toyomoho]

Could be several issues as a result of the cold.

As stated check the coolant level, this can cause all of the issues you have.

If coolant level and engine temp is OK and no heat the coolant heater valve could be not be opening. This allows coolant to run into the heater core inside the car. You should be able to see the valve in the engine compartment, driver’s side near the firewall. A hose from the valve should run through the firewall to the heater core.

If the engine is overheating could be the thermostat or the radiator fan is not working. The fan turns on when the coolant temp reaches around 199F.

If you have a temp gauge, even one for cooking, place it inside the radiator where the cap goes and warm the engine up. See if the coolant really is getting to hot and if so if the fan is kicking in.

The issue with starting could be the cold start injector, a separate injector on the intake manifold to inject extra fuel when the engine is cold. Or might be the idle air control valve that controls idle.

But check coolant level first.

[Dave's]

Slushy isn't good. I'd probably start with a flush and new coolant. Hope your heater core isn't plugged.

[Mike Gerber]

Originally Posted by zanderch

I looked in it, and it's just above the FULL line, and I donno what it's supposed to look like, but it's greyish brownish, and there's a little bit of slush in it, like a melting slurpee.

Your cooling system is partially frozen. There is not enough antifreeze in the coolant mix. It appears to be mostly water. Get the car indoors somewhere and let it thaw out. Then drain the cooling system and refill with at least 55% antifreeze mixed with water. You might want to check what the recommended portion of antifreeze is in your area. Then bleed the system thoroughly. Hopefully, you haven't ruined the head gasket or cracked the cylinder head or block.

Mike

[white90dx]

Originally Posted by zanderch

I looked in it, and it's just above the FULL line, and I donno what it's supposed to look like, but it's greyish brownish, and there's a little bit of slush in it, like a melting slurpee.

You will also want to check the radiator to make sure it has coolant in it. Not just the overflow tank. Take off the radiator cap to make sure there is fluid right ot the top (and that it isn't frozen!).

-Charlie

[boi_si]

back flush the heater core.