I am having a problem with my 1998 honda Accord. The engine stays cool when driving normally but as soon as I put the car in park the radiator no longer kicks in and it slowly begins to overheat. Im not sure what could be the problem. It doesnt make sense to me because I dont see why the radiator would run differently if in park?? Any help would be appreciated. Thanks

 

check your cooling fans. it sounds like they are not turning on, since there doesnt seem to be any air flow when you're stopped.

 

The fans turn on only when the car is actually driving. When Im in park or not moving the fans do not turn on. It doesnt really make sense to me. Im not sure why it would matter if the car is moving or not in order for the fans to turn on???

 

Are you sure they run when driving?

Normally they should only run when stopped because driving (even 15mph) pushes plenty of air thru the radiator to keep it cool.

Follow the lower radiator hose to the thermostat housing on theback of the engine. There's a 'sensor' on the thermostat housingwith a 2-wire plug. Unplug it & jumper the wire with a paperclip. Key on, that should make the fans run. Post back after you try that.

edit...
Oops; I forgot to ask what engine. What I said is for a 4-cylinder. I don't know where the fan switch is located on a V-6.