Why Is My Car Overheating? Top Reasons & How to Fix Them

There is nothing more frustrating than seeing the temperature meter in your car rising and sue to which steam started coming from under the hood. If you found yourself asking that ‘why is my car overheating?’ You are not alone in this situation. There are many people, who face this situation, overheating is one of the most common and serious car problems which can lead to costly used engine damages, if ignored. But don’t worry; you are in safe hands with usedenginepart.com. Let’s explore, what causes a car to overheat and what you can do to fix it.

What Causes a Car Overheating?

Car overheats when the temperature of engine spikes above its normal range. This generally happens when the cooling system doesn’t function properly and absorbs the heat. Several underlying problems can be the reason for it and knowing the reasons for car overheating can help you take the accurate actions.

Low or Leaking Coolant

It is one of the primary reasons that your car overheating with coolant or without it is due to low coolant levels. Coolant is vital, as it absorbs the engine heat and carries it farther from the engine block.

To fix this, you need to check coolant level and fill it if low. If it frequently runs low, than you might have to look for a leak which needs to be fixed.

Faulty Thermostat

If the thermostat is stuck than it can block coolant from circulating through the engine. If it fails to open at the accurate temperature than coolant won’t flow which causing engine overheating.

To fix this, you need to replace the thermostat. It is not that expensive and has no complex repairing.

Radiator Problems

A clogged leaking radiator cannot clear the heat properly which results to car overheating.

To fix this, you need to flush the radiator if it clogged or replace it, if required. Also, check for cracks and leaks as well.

Broken Water Pump

Water pump circulates the coolant throughout the engine. If it is malfunctioned or broken, it means cooling system isn’t performing its job properly which leads to car overheating.

To fix this, you need to replace the water pump. The signs indicate to replacement are whining noises, coolant leaks near the front of the engine or engine temperature spikes.

Cooling Fan Failure

Electric cooling fan pulls the air through the radiator to lower the coolant temperature. If the fan fails in traffic or while idling than your car overheating when idle.

To fix this, you need to test the fan motor, check the fan fuse or replace the malfunctioning fan.

Blocked or Collapsed Hoses

Hoses can be clogged because of dust which restricts the coolant level and causes car overheating.

To fix this, you need to inspect the radiator and hoses for any sort of damage or blockage and replace it, if needed.

Air in the Cooling System

Air pocket can prevent the coolant from circulating properly which leads to hot spots in the engine and eventual overheating.

To fix this, you need to remove air pockets to remove the trapped air.

Car Overheating When AC Is On

Running the AC adds extra stress on engine and its cooling system. If your car overheats when AC is on than the cooling system of your vehicle is weak.

And to fix this you need to check the coolant levels. You may also need to inspect the condenser for blockages.

What to Do If Car Overheats?

If you notice that your car is overheating, just simply take these precautions as immediate effect:

• First of all, turn off the AC and turn on the heater, it will help to pull the heat away from the engine.
• Afterwards, Pull over safely and shut off the engine.
• Then, Wait for the engine to cool down before you open the hood.
• Check the coolant level but only after the engine is completely cool.
• Calls the mechanic, if you are unsure about what’s causing the issue.

Driving while your car is overheating can cause the permanent engine failure, warped cylinders or even a blown head gasket.

Final Thoughts

From the above gist, we concluded that if you ever wondered that ‘why is my car overheating?’ Than answer could be anything from low coolant to faulty thermostat or fan failure. First, you need to diagnose the cause and then fix it, to void the roadside breakdowns and protect your engine’s long-term health.