The perils of overeating

I have a Golf VR6. The car has started to overheat so I’ve pulled over to let it cool down. I’ve then topped it up with water, started the engine with the water cap off and water keeps bubbling to the top. My battery light is staying on and I’ve lost my power steering. I’ve also heard a very loud screeching noise. Could this be to do with the pulley tensioner?

Asked on 3 April 2010 by J.S., via e-mail

Answered by Honest John

Disappearing coolant is the VR6 nightmare. It happens because of the huge area the cylinder head gasket has to cover due to the narrow angle ‘V’ configuration. This can result in piston crowns burning out. It’s going to be expensive. The battery light and loss of power steering are simply due to a slipping ancillaries belt.

Tags: overheating technical issues owning engine

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