Hello,

An odd one for you. Immediately after turning the engine off on my '96 XJ12 (within 5 seconds or so), I can hear a gurgling/bubbling sound coming from the engine bay, I'm assuming from the coolant reservoir. The gurgling/bubbling lasts for about 2 or 3 seconds, then stops. The reservoir is at the proper level.

The car doesn't overheat and the temperature needle, once warmed up, stays just about one notch to the left of "N" on the dial. I've noticed, when warming up, the needle can flutter just a bit when it's rising up to normal temp. Maybe there's air in the system? Isn't this a self-bleeding system?

I have also noticed after extended idling, when I turn the car off, the electric cooling fans will run on low for a few minutes with the key out. Is this normal behavior?

I did read somewhere that the low speed fans are set to kick on at 187 degrees, and this makes since if the engine has 190 degree thermostats installed, right?

Any ideas?

Thanks,
Nick

 

I've never noticed a sound like that after shut down. But the system is generally self-bleeding. It might help if you run up to temp with the cap off, heater on high. Sure don't want air trapped in the system. Change out the coolant if you don't have proof of recent service, and make sure all connections are secure. Take no chances!

The fans will run after shutdown most of the time too, unless its cold out.

 

dBig Thanks! I was a little concerned about the fans running most of the time I shut the car down, even though the technical stuff said that was correct. It's good to know it's nothing to worry about.

I've purchased two thermostats and gaskets and a new pressure cap from the dealer, and will definitely be draining/flushing the coolant ASAP as I don't want any surprises down the road.

I'll try running the car up to temp with the heater on Hi and see what I get.

Thanks,
Nick