Hi,
This summer when I was driving back to Chicago from Florida, the engine of my Countour GL'95 started overheating after a fast startup from a highway curb (tachometer did not go to red though - just about 4500 rpm; air temps were ~90F) about 100 miles from Atlanta. I was obviously very frustrated to have my short vacation being spoiled by the problem. I had to get the car towed to Atlanta, drive to Chicago o fa rent-a-car, come back a week later to learn from a dealer that the water pump melted. ~$300 got me back on the road.
I got a new cooling fan electronic fuse installed by a Ford dealer before the trip - there was a manufacturer's recall (00M13) for the fuse.
My question is, is that possible that the engine overheating could occur as a result of the fuse replacement? If so, I could be eligible for refund of the cost of repairs.
Recently I learned about another recall program - 01M07 - a no charge extended warranty and free replacement (in case of falure) of a heater blower switch.
Both above recalls sound related to a possibility of engine overheating.
The mechanic at the Ford dealership in Atlanta did not mention any reasons why the engine could overheat. Neither he did offer any refunds or reductions of the repair costs due to any recalls.
Do you think they could hide the trouth in order to charge me for the service? I don't believe that an engine that was not running hot before (never over mid range on a dashboard indicator) would suddenly go that bad only because of a fast start. :rolleyes: I had the vehicle serviced (oil and transmission change, collant added, etc)in Florida a day before the trip. I suspect that some switch malfunctioned, and that caused overheating, and that Ford dealer has not been truthful to me.
Of course I would be happy do get a refund if possible, because it has not been only $300 for me, but more ~$1000 (rent two ways to and from Chicago, 2 nights in motels, extra gas, missed days at work...).
Any comments on the nature of the problem, as well on your experience with dealer mechanics are welcome.
Sorry for the long post.
Thank you in advance.
