On my 2008 Toyota Tacoma, the temp gauge & heater/AC is broke & smells like radiatior fluid.

angela18cali

What could it be? Hey everyone. The temp gauge maxed tonight driving home from work, then went back to normal about 3 min later (like a pin dropping). Also, the heater is broken, and the engine light is on. It's dark (& still hot) so I didn't want to take a look tonight. But, just wonderin' your thoughts on what the problem is and, most importantly, can I drive it to the dealership (10 miles)? Thanks ahead of time!

Gavin C

Sounds like your heater core might have gone out on you not good better get it fixed.

Sparkbolt

It is more likely to be a leaky water pump. the leak is sometimes difficult to see on the bottom. It usually will have to get the coolant low enough before it will overheat like you are experiencing now. The heater will not function correctly with low coolant and the check engine lite will come on with a code for excessive high temperature. Your vehicle should be covered under warranty (comprehensive is 3yr-36,000 miles and power train (water pump) is covered for 5 years- 60,000 miles). When the vehicle has cooled overnight, add water to the radiator and the overflow bottle and then take it in to your dealer- (making an appointment helps) and they may give you a rental car if you ask. Good Luck -- SB

alf

So it is the heating problem. You do not have to worry too much as your car is fully under guarantee. Of course you can drive to the garage, make sure the radiator is filled up, it would be wise to carry a water bottle in case the fluid is leaked out when pressure builds up.