Toyota 4 Runner keeps overheating

[ng199]

I recently got a used 1999 Toyota 4 Runner and I am having trouble with my radiator. The meter on the dashboard keeps rising up to "H" when I get stuck in traffic, but its fine when there is normal flow traffic. I can't figure out whats causing it. i replaced the thermostat and bled the system but the meter is still rising. I had a friend check it out and he couldn't find anything wrong. Can anyone else tell me what I can do?

[Brian R.]

Welcome to the AF!

Check your fan. The oil may have leaked out of it. This would prevent it from locking up when you're hot. Driving will bring air through the radiator. Cooling when you're stalled in traffic makes the cooling system rely on the fan to pull air through the radiator.

Also, check to see if your radiator has cool spots when the engine is hot. If so, your radiator is partially plugged.

Check your coolant level also. Make sure you have high coolant level in the reservoir when hot and much less when it's cold.

Check your radiator cap and your coolant level in the radiator if you are not getting coolant flowing in and out of the reservoir as you should.