Experiencing car trouble can be incredibly stressful, especially when it happens unexpectedly. This account details the frustrating experience of a 2000 Plymouth Neon owner whose vehicle broke down on the highway, presenting a series of alarming symptoms. Let’s delve into the potential issues based on the described events.
The initial sign of trouble was an elevated heat gauge reading in the 2000 Plymouth Neon. Despite recent radiator, hose, and thermostat replacements, the engine temperature was running hot. A temporary fix was discovered – turning the heat on high, which seemingly brought the temperature back to normal almost immediately. This action suggests a potential issue within the cooling system itself. However, this relief was short-lived. After a minute with the heat on high, strange noises emerged, prompting the driver to turn off the heat and investigate.
Upon turning the heat back on low, a loud thudding noise erupted, accompanied by erratic gauge behavior, and the engine stalled completely. This dramatic escalation points towards a more serious underlying problem than just simple overheating. Adding to the complexity, the owner had recently dealt with a power steering AC belt tensioner failure and had noticed serpentine belt squeaking. Furthermore, the presence of oil in the coolant reservoir, coupled with significant oil consumption and a known oil leak with undetermined source, paints a concerning picture.
Considering these symptoms in a 2000 Plymouth Neon, several potential culprits emerge. The overheating, especially after recent cooling system work, could indicate trapped air in the system, a faulty water pump (despite the recent thermostat replacement), or even a head gasket issue. The sudden breakdown with thudding and gauge malfunction could be linked to the same cooling system problem causing catastrophic engine failure or a more complex electrical issue triggered by the initial overheating. The oil in the coolant is a strong indicator of a head gasket leak or a cracked engine block or cylinder head, allowing oil and coolant to mix. The serpentine belt and tensioner issues may be related but could also be separate wear-and-tear problems common in older vehicles like a 2000 Plymouth Neon.
Given the age and reported pre-existing issues of this 2000 Plymouth Neon, including a need for a crank sensor, transmission leak, and strut mounts, the breakdown could be a culmination of several failing components. While a definitive diagnosis without a professional inspection is impossible, the symptoms strongly suggest a serious engine problem, potentially head gasket failure or worse, compounded by other maintenance needs. It is highly recommended to seek professional diagnosis to accurately pinpoint the cause and assess the feasibility of repair for this 2000 Plymouth Neon.
