I have a 2002 Ford Focus that just recently started running hot while in idle. Especially, when i am stopped.?

(2011-12-19 15:15:08)

1. treb1oro Says: Especially, when i am stopped in traffic. Is this something I can fix my self and save some money?? Hope so?

2. hobbabob Says: this repair depends on your skill level. evidence suggests that the cooling fan for the radiator has quit working.
there may be several reasons for this, and a scan tool that has bi-directional capabilities would make things move along quicker..
1. if tool available command the cooling fan ON. [all tests will be key on engine off] if fan now functions, replace the coolant temp sensor. NOTE : depending on year model there may be only one temp sensor, this works for fuel injection, dash mounted temperature gauge and cooling fan, instead of 3 different sensors.
2. if no scan tool avails or scan tool did not turn the fan on proceed as follows:
A. inspect the fuse panel [your glove box owners manual will be needed as the fuse cavities are no longer labeled], now with a 12 volt test light probe the cooling fan fuse [test light lights on both sides of fuse.] if fuse is blown [only lights on one side of fuse] replace it with another of the SAME amperage then run engine until fan comes on [does the new fuse blow?] NO - O.K. your done
YES replace the fan motor. [note some aftermarket cooling fan motors are designed to be universal in nature.and not even resemble the one you are replacing, generally these also give you a bunch of mickey mouse crap to adapt to your particular vehicle, some of it will be used and some discarded.]
3 if fuse is ok turn to next page in owners manual and fine relay locations [generally the relay for the cooling fan and the horn can be swapped ,if horn no longer blows replace the cooling fan relay [after putting the horn relay back where it came from.
if these words do not help or you are not particularly mechanically inclined please see your local
dealership or trusted independant shop
very best of luck hope this helps.

3. James Says: From your description, your radiator fan isn't coming on. The easiest, least expensive, and most common repair for this concern is a corroded fan resistor, especially in states where salt is used to clear snow and ice. Located in the top of the fan shroud, between the two fans, is the resistor that corrodes and fails, causing the fans to stop working. Pull the resistor out and check for excessive corrosion. Replace and test by running the engine with the A/C on. The fans should now come on and you'll be all set.