Overheated Engine - Cause?

In cold ( cool) weather cooling fans do not engage - the do sometimes when you turn the heater on but it doesn't affect the coolant temp. It is possible that collision shop failed to reconnect your fans after body repair was done- but, as said above- it should not cause your engine overheating during winter monts ( even in CA). "Cracked block or head" is likely correct diagnosis and it was caused by engine overheating. In my opinion overheating was a manifestation of failed HG, which is quite common for 2.5 l DOHC horizontal four Subie engines.

Thanks for your reply. I take it from your message that "Cracked block or head" is another listed diagnosis for message PO483? Also, what causes a blown head gasket? The pre-trip inspection also indicated that there were leaks at the valve cover gaskets. Could these be related?

If the collision caused, or the repair required, opening the coolant system, it's quite likely the car was returned to you improperly filled with new coolant. I believe this year should also have a Subaru coolant additive which may not have been re-installed. Most soobs (and some other cars) require complex filling procedures to avoid trapping air in the coolant system. Coupled with the unplugged cooling fans ,etc. may have led to a localized overheating problem which breached the head gasket. These issues have been reported before. you clould search past postings here, or search the forums over at

. Likely this started at the collision and its repair. I dunno.

Carl

Most likely way fans were disconnected would be if they were disconected during the collision repair and not reconnected. If shop was not familiar with Subarus I would also suspect they didn't follow the proper proceedure for filling the cooling system and that resulted in trapped air which could easily lead to over heating.

If you are now looking at a big bill for repair, I wouldn't overlook letting the repair shop know that they are at least paritially to blame and you expect them to make things right.

Mickey

Thanks to all of your for your very valuable feedback. Aside from your great input, got on usmb.net and got some additional info, so I feel SO much better informed and ready to discuss with mechanic/insurance company/collison company tomorrow. By the way, if anyone knows a reputable indie Subaru mechanic in Las Vegas, we'd like to get a second opinion on the car's problem. Thanks!

I'd be VERY interested in that also. AFIK Findlay Subaru is the only Subaru repair shop in the LV Valley.

Here is one alternative though (from the AAA website)

Car Care Plus Facilities AAA's Car Care Plus® facilities in California and Nevada, first of a growing breed, put AAA's auto expertise to work on your car. They provide a one-stop solution for your repair and maintenance needs, and offer other amenities for busy drivers and their families. Nevada Henderson

1251 American Pacific Drive, Suite 101 Henderson, NV 89074 Open weekdays 7:30 a.m.- 6 p.m.; Open Saturdays 7:30 a.m.- 5 p.m. For an appointment, call 1-702-568-5222. Our menu of services The highly trained technicians at the Car Care Plus centers perform a full array of services using state-of-the-art equipment: ? Vehicle Inspection Service ? Specific problem diagnostics ? Oil change ? Smog check and related repairs ? Brake system repair ? Basic electrical repair ? Minor engine repair ? Four-wheel alignment ? Air conditioning service ? Cooling system service All services are covered by a 12-month/12,000-mile warranty ? 24 months/24,000 miles for AAA Members. Members also receive a 10% Show Your Card & Save discount on all labor costs and select package services.