Overheating - possible causes?

[Greg.w]

Hey folks!

This is my first proper thread so hello to all!

As I explained on my newbie thread I have a mk1 focus rs that highly tuned so I'm looking for a clio 172 to be a project run around car.

Im after a cheap one that will have high milage probably and need a bit of work. I'm a mechy engineer so can do most things myself.

Theres one I've been looking at that is very cheap. It's a 172 phase 2. Don't know much about it as the ad isn't very detailed so waiting on a text from the seller. Basically it has an overheating issue.

So my question is what are the possible causes? Thermostat, blocked cooling system, head gasket? What's the worst case scenario?

Cheers for looking

 

[Silent_Scone]

It's very unlikely to be head gasket, possibly radiators rusted and blocked to buggery, or could just be an air alock / water pump

 

[Jamie16v]

Has the owner checked coolant level...

Mine started overheating at the weekend and it turned out to be that *noob*

 

[Greg.w]

Thanks for the replies

Yes I did read the head gasket is very very unlikely but always a possibility.

Ill try and get the symptoms from the seller and report back to see what youse think it sounds like.

 

[Greg.w]

Right got a bit more info.

2001 172 with 102k on the clock. Mot till may and tax till feb. Mo documentation of cambelt so that needs done. Plus the overheating issue that is really really vague. He says it drives fine etc and is in good nick.

Price is £800.

So deal or no deal?

 

[TimR26]

It's not that great a deal unless its in great condition and has a good service history of regular oil changes.It won't be that cheap once you've paid £250 for tax, £400 for a cambelt change, plus however much for the overheating issue.You could probably find a decent 172 with no faults for £1500.

 

[Riley!]

Saw the exact same car for sale. Advert with no mileage by any chance? Had to ask them for it. Put it this way if I thought it was worth buying it woudn't of been for sale by the time you saw it

 

[Greg.w]

Yes mate ad didn't mention anything really, no milage or mot or tax mentioned ad it's not ha the cambelt done. Going to give it a miss I think.

Looking for a cheap phase 1 now lol

Thanks for all the replies