* Overheating: This indicates the engine isn't effectively shedding heat. The most common causes are a failing water pump, a clogged radiator, a leak in the cooling system (including hoses and the radiator itself), a malfunctioning thermostat, or a low coolant level.
* Cold Air: The heater core is a small radiator located inside the vehicle's cabin. It uses coolant from the engine to warm the air that is then blown through the vents. If the engine is overheating but the cabin is cold, this suggests that:
* The coolant isn't circulating properly through the heater core. This could be due to a blockage in the heater core itself, a closed heater control valve, or a problem with the water pump's ability to push coolant throughout the entire system.
* The coolant is bypassing the heater core. A leak or blockage elsewhere in the system might cause the coolant to flow through a different route, avoiding the heater core.
In short, the overheating is the primary problem, and the cold air is a symptom suggesting a problem within the coolant's flow path, likely related to the heater core or its associated plumbing.
You should NOT continue driving this vehicle. Overheating can cause severe and expensive engine damage. Have it towed to a mechanic for diagnosis and repair immediately. Ignoring the problem will only lead to more costly repairs down the road.
