As summer temperatures rise, the risk of your vehicle overheating increases. Overheating can lead to serious engine damage and leave you stranded on the side of the road. Understanding the reasons behind overheating and taking preventative measures can help you avoid these issues. In this month’s blog post we examine the primary factors that can cause your vehicle to overheat, and how to prevent them from happening.
Common Causes of Vehicle Overheating
- Low Coolant Levels:
- Coolant, a mixture of water and antifreeze, absorbs heat from the engine and dissipates it through the radiator. If the coolant is low in your vehicle, it will prevent the cooling system from adequately cooling the vehicle.
- Prevention: Regularly check your coolant levels and top off as needed. Ensure there are no leaks in the cooling system.
- Faulty Thermostat
- The thermostat regulates the flow of coolant through the engine. Issues that may prevent the thermostat from opening and allowing coolant to flow through the engine can cause overheating.
- Prevention: Have your thermostat checked during regular maintenance and replace it if it shows signs of malfunction.
- Radiator Issues
- The radiator dissipates heat from the coolant. More commonly when your radiator is clogged from dirt and debris, the radiator cap is damaged, or the radiator fan is not operating, your engine may overheat.
- Prevention: Clean the radiator regularly and inspect it for damage. Ensure the radiator cap is functioning properly, and the fan is working.
- Water Pump Failure
- The water pump circulates coolant through the engine and radiator. If the water pump is not functioning, it can impede the flow of coolant through the engine and result in overheating.
- Prevention: Listen for unusual noises from the water pump and have it inspected during routine maintenance. Replace it if necessary.
- Blocked or Restricted Hoses
- Hoses carry coolant between the engine, radiator, and other components. Sometimes the hoses may be blocked and not allow the coolant to flow through the various components of the engine.
- Prevention: Inspect hoses for cracks, leaks, or blockages and replace them as needed.
- Air Conditioning Load
- When you overuse your air conditioning, especially if you have it on Max in extreme heat or in traffic, it can overload the cooling system and cause the vehicle to overheat.
- Prevention: Use the air conditioning judiciously and ensure the system is well-maintained.
- Traffic Jams
- If you are idling or sitting in traffic for any length of time, the engine may have difficulty dissipating heat due to reduced air flow.
- Prevention: Avoid heavy traffic when possible and turn off the engine if you expect to be idling for an extended period.
- Poor Maintenance
- Regular maintenance is important for your cooling system to keep out dirt and debris and keep parts functioning properly.
- Prevention: Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule, including coolant flushes and replacements, and keep the cooling system clean.
By understanding the factors that can cause your vehicle to overheat and taking preventative measures, you can help ensure your car remains in good condition throughout this scorching summer. If you would like your vehicle to be checked for risk of overheating, contact the professionals at Geller’s Automotive to schedule an appointment.
