First off, my V6 has been leaking coolant ( a drop or two max) for a year since I got it and never wanted to bother with it. I don't know if thats related at all but I just thought it should be mentioned. Anyway, my car always runs about 180 degrees on short trips. Today it shot up to 220, and then went into red around 260 degrees. Literally 10 seconds later, it was back down to 220 degrees and ran a bit hot the rest of the ride. Then I get out of my car and my radiator or its hoses were hissing. Then some steam came off of the passenger side of the radiator. I don't know if a sensor is shot or what. Where should I start to find the problem? Just check where the leak is coming then replace it? Where can I find hoses and the radiator and what should I be spending? Thanks!!!

(Of course this happens to me 4 days before I'm going to repaint it!)

 

If you are still running the stock plastic tank radiator it is probably time to replace it. They tend to start cracking after a few years. Don't have it repaired with a new tank(plastic) you would be better off getting a solid metal radiator. They cost alittle more but well worth it.

 

Ok, now I'm also thinking its the thermostat from what I was told from friends. How do I replace that? Also, how much am I looking for a new metal radiator and maybe hoses? Thanks!

 

The radiator and hose's are probably going to be about $150ish.
go to TGO do a search for the thermostat,it's not hard once you see how it's done.

 

I think the radiator is dead. I can smell the antifreeze evaporating off from a leak. So Im getting a new thermostat and refilling the system. If it still overheats looks like time for a new radiator... yuck.

 

Go out for a short drive and let the car heat up,then head home. With the car running,look around the radiator and hoses for leaks and to make sure the fan is coming on. If you dont see any leaks,shut it off and watch/listen.

hope that helps