Driving Cars w/ temp Max'ed

[NCLaker]

Got a chance to practice staying calm in a very frustrating situation tonight.

The wife calls me from the gas station asking me what to do cause the cars temp gauge was pegged on "H". I told her to bring it to the shop across the street to have them check it out ... now the frustrating part ... I ask her how long she thought it was running on high heat, she estimates 15-20 minutes in stop & go traffic!!!!

So what is that chances the engine is toast?? Any way to tell for sure? The garage she brought it to (Midas) is going to check it out in the morning, but initial inspection they assume failed water pump was the cause.

By the way it is a 2001 Merc Sable.

[Jeremy airjer W]

If it didn't stall than there is a chance.

[Sonicrunch]

if anything fails, it will most likely be the head gaskets.

[Scott K]

You never stated which engine this had, if it was the over head valve, or the DOHC. The DOHC engine isnt as forgiving as the OHV with extreme overheats. Warping the head.

[fishing tech]

Did it boil over or just the gauge reading on H? If it is a 12 valve you might be ok, 24 valve could be in trouble. Do you still have my # Tito? Give me a call tomorrow after you here from the shop.

Keith

[NCLaker]

Thanks guys ... Hey Keith, yes I have your number. Forget you posted on this board. (gotta hookup for some fishing one of these days)

Unfortunately it is the 24 valve. Ended up pulling the trigger on getting the fix cause I couldn't afford to get a new car at this time so had to take the risk. They replaced the water pump, thermostat,and coolant flush. They said they checked it out and seems to be working fine. After driving it home, so far so good.

Need it to last a couple more years, by then all my kids will be done with college - then a new vehicle will be feasible. Crossing my fingers and hoping I got lucky!!!!