Rep Power: 0

I am trying to help my daughter with a couple of issues on her car.
2003 LX 1.7l
225K miles
No CEL
No stored codes.
Trying to start it results in a long crank time with pedal to the floor. After about 15 secs it will finally catch and start although idle is rough at around 800 RPM's. Giving it some gas smoothes right out and will idle but rough.

Allowing it to achieve operating temp will cycle the fans and maintain around 215°F temp.
As soon as I drive it, the gauge goes up all the way within 500 ft.
Allowing it to sit results in the fans cycling on and off until it cools back down to approx halfway on the gauge.

I can start the car and let it run for 5 mins then shut it down and attempting to restart it is met with the same starting process described above.
What might be causing the long crank time and flooded-lije condition while starting and why does it remain cool while idling but immediately overheat when I attempt to drive it after allowing it to warm up?

If I drive it right after starting it, the car runs and drives smoothly for a couple of miles but then the temp gay6ge starts moving up until I have to shut it down to prevent it overheating.

Thank you for reading and any help you can impart.
Steve

 
Rep Power: 125

How's the coolant level in the overflow tank? Sounds like you're in failed head gasket territory.

 
Rep Power: 0

Discovered the coolant isn't circulating. Tested the thermostat and figured out it's the water pump not circulating
.
Definitely a head gasket. Fom overheating.