Hello,
I have a 2009 Dodge Challenger RT, about 76k miles on it, automatic transmission, 5.7 V8 (HEMI). Over the past couple of months I have had some issues with the engine overheating. I have replaced the radiator (which was leaking). the water pump (also was leaking), and the thermostat twice (the old one failed and the new one also failed a couple months after installation) for about 2 months after these repairs the car was fine, but it has begun to overheat again. For about a week the car would maintain its operating temperature if i had the heat on full blast, but now i cannot drive more than about 20-30 minutes without the temperature gauge hitting red. There is never smoke when it begins to overheat, the warning light does not come on and I am not loosing any coolant. Tried a new mechanic out and they said either head gaskets/headers/cracked engine block, but I was under the assumption these problems would cause smoke and coolant loss?
I have little to no mechanically knowledge/experience (i can change my oil and my wheels) I just would like to hear a second opinion before I potentially pay someone to replace my engine, if I don't really need to
Any help would be appreciated, thank you
Do a standard compression test. Take all of the spark plugs out, and put a thing you can get at AutoZone, I don't remember what it's called, at the moment.
If it runs fine when it first starts, and you don't notice it starting to run off, as it warms up, I would say the engine itself is fine. Make sure all of the tubing is right, you said you replaced the radiator, and water pump. Make sure the screws and the radiator itself are fine.
Make sure you use an OEM thermostat. Cheap, aftermarket stuff is no good.
Thanks very much, Ill look into the compression test to see what i need from auto zone and try it out. Thank you