Hello,
It's brutal cold here in the Northeast and I've had to start my 2004 Chevy colorado every day to keep the battery from going dead. I started it today and left it running for 20 minutes. When I went out to shut if off, there was a message on the dash "Engine Hot". I shut it off but am afraid that I did damage. It's only 5 degrees here. Do you think with it overheating, and being so cold outside that it could crack the block when it cools down? How long should I let it idle to charge the battery?

 

Validate your coolant is mixed correctly and coolant level. If so could be a computer or sensor issue do to extreme cold.

 

Thank you so much! I just went out and took a look. There's coolant all over the ground and the coolant is barely covering the bottom of the the reservoir. I can't get the radiator cap off to see if there's anything in the radiator. This is just the worst living way out in the middle of no where. Thinking that I'll have to have it towed, I don't know where the leak is.

 

Your coolant may have frozen and cracked something. You'll need to up the level of antifreeze in the mix when it's refilled.

 

Do I need to get coolant back in immediately? Not driving anywhere, will other things freeze without it?

 

Did anything change? Coolant flush?

I would also suspect a sticky thermostat or a water pump.

However, seeing how you report there is cool and on the ground, are you certain a freeze plug didn't pop out?

 

Hi Madmann26,

Nothing has changed, that's why I was so worried. Had a thermostat replaced last year. I don't know what a freeze plug is but will look into it. Thanks for the tips.

 

If the thermostat was professionally replaced keep in mind that most mechanics will mix the coolant 50/50 which protect you for well more than 5 degrees. Is the spilled coolant on the ground liquid or ice? If it is still liquid we can assume you are good there.

You could do a visual inspection and make sure that all of your hoses are ok and dont have any holes in them. Check any plastic junction (t connector) check all your hose clamps.

im not sure which engine you have but you can probably search for the freeze plug location and its probably listed online.

 

Thank you Six Speed,
The coolant is maintained by professional mechanics. There is snow under the truck, and the coolant turned it to slush. I'll check again in the morning to see if it froze. Thank you for all the advice. I so hope that it's just something that came loose. These terrible cold temps make doing anything outside just miserable.

 

If I find the leak, hoping that it's something minor, and have to add coolant, does it come pre-mixed at a regular auto parts stores, or do I have to dilute it myself before adding to the reservoir?
Also, do I have to be concerned about air having been pulled into the lines? I'm trying to figure out if I have to have it towed to the shop or can drive it there.
Thank you all for your kindness and patience!