My '96 Neon heats up in slow traffic?

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it could be the radiator getting a little stopped up also and that will cause one to heat up while setting still at a red light or the cooling fan may not be coming on when it should be,or the cooling fan relay could be causing this too happen to it,you need to have it checked though ,that's one engine you don't ever want to run hot,if you do it will cost you big time to get it repaired,good luck....Show more

You need to use a proper anti-freeze tester and mix the coolant no more then 50/50 regardless if cold or hot climates set it for about a good -40F.One major mistake made in taking thermostats out or not knowing that anti-freeze isn't just for cold weather or not mixing the anti-freeze right or using water when it should be distilled water being used.

I'd be sure to replace the coolant if you've never done it yet on that vehicle and use anti-freeze then add distilled water , then later keep a 50/50 premix on hand to top it off when needed.Once you've changed the coolant and thermostat bleed the air out bec air clogs or air bubbles can occur.

Once its sitting idling watch and listen for the fan to engage after it runs awhile , if it doesn't engage , try the A/C for awhile see if fan engages , if not check the fan fuses , fan relay , fan temperature sensor and any wiring , plus the fan or fans.Check the grounds and the engine block ground and connections on the starter , alternator , battery , fuse box , power junctions for rust or corrosion bec that can cause systems to run poorly too....Show more

You need to put in a new thermostat first. Then replace your cooling fan motors. When they get this old they ether don't work or no longer turn enough rpm to draw enough air when the car is stopped or moving real slow. Its best along with the new fan motors to also replace the fan relay....Show more