i have an 02 fiat punto and since a mechanic changed the headlights on my car on monday, when i drive the car, after about 5 mins, then temp gauge starts to rise until it gets half way, then another 5 minutes and it goes a bit further up and stops, when i stop the car at lights, i can hear the fan and when i come to a complete stop the fan stays on for about 5 mins. i have checked the water and the oil and both are fine. has anyone got any suggestions as i m scared to drive the car, and as i work 15 mins away from home on the motorway, i do need my car everyday! please help!!!

abbie, May 2009

thanks for all your help,

the mechanic checked it out and turns out that i needed a new thermostat, this has resolved the problem.

Abbie, May 2009

It's possible the mechanic has disturbed wiring to the temp sensor or radiator fan switch. It may simply be that he has pushed the fan or radiator a little out of place, making it louder so that you notice it more.
Make sure he hasn't left an oily rag in front of the radiator!!
Best bet would be to go back to the mechanic and ask him to have a look.
DO NOT go in shouting " It never did that before you touched it, so it must be your fault!!".

spenny, May 2009

Maybe this is actually normal - although you don't say that you have noticed it before...the car can only cool down naturally when it is being driven along and air is passing through the radiator. When you stop, the electric fan cuts in to keep things cool. The fan continues to run until the engine is cool enough for it to stop. However, you need to keep checking the water level, and raise the alarm if you see any signs of an oil emulsion in the water...if you still aren't happy, suggest to your mechanic that a new thermostat could be required if the problem gets worse.

John, May 2009