How to Troubleshoot an Overheating 1995 Ford Explorer

You're driving down the highway in your 1995 Ford Explorer when suddenly the engine light comes on and smoke begins billowing from beneath the hood. You've had the vehicle for years and hope the problem is not too serious. After all, the Ford Explorer is one of the most popular SUVs of all time. There are a number of factors that could be causing it to overheat, so let's explore your options.

Instructions

1

Pull over to a safe area on the side of the road and turn your safety lights on to alert other drivers. Turn the vehicle off to allow it to cool down, then open the hood to investigate the source of the problem.

2

Check the level of coolant fluid. A low level of coolant is the most common cause of overheating and can often indicate a leak in either the water pump, hoses or radiator. Refill the plastic coolant tank entirely and see if the fluid maintains a consistent level.

3

Examine the cleanliness of the radiator. Oftentimes buildup from dead bugs and dirt can clog the radiator and cause overheating. Use an infrared thermometer to check the radiator for blockage. If this is the cause of the problem, then the radiator must be either cleaned or replaced.

4

Call a mechanic and arrange for your vehicle to be serviced if you are unable to troubleshoot the problem. It's better to be safe than sorry when managing an overheating vehicle.