Why Your Car Is Overheating

There are many reasons why your car may overheat, apart from warm weather and long drives. If your car overheats, it is a sign that you are in need of a car repair. While allowing your car to cool down will often get you back on the road, you will need to resolve the larger problem as soon as possible.
 
You Need A New Thermostat
 
The thermostat in your car differs from the thermostat in your home, in that it automatically opens and closes a heat-sensitive valve—with the goal of keeping your engine cool. If the thermostat is broken, it will not release the required coolant, which often leads to overheating.
 
Coolant Troubles
 
Not all engine coolants are the same. Look at your owner’s manual to determine the best type of coolant for your vehicle, or ask your mechanic to advise on the best coolant for your vehicle. Even if you have the correct type of coolant, a blocked or leaking coolant component could be the cause. Common leakage and blockage points include hoses, radiator, water pump, thermostat housing, heater core, head gasket, freeze plugs, automatic transmission oil cooler, cylinder heads and block.
 
Radiator Troubles
 
The radiator has a fan that blows air that helps to keep your engine cool. If the fan is broken, or air is not able to adequately pass through the radiator—your engine can overheat. Also, check to make sure the radiator cap is sound and in place, and that your radiator is not leaking coolant.
 
Water Pump Troubles
 
Your water pump helps to maintain the pressure and flow of your engine’s coolant. If the water pump is faulty, your coolant will not properly cool your engine. This includes a loose or broken belt, eroded impeller vanes, or a faulty pump shaft.
 
Dirty Air Filter
 
Each time you go in for an oil change, be sure to ask about the state of your air filter. If it is too dirty or clogged—air will not properly flow to cool your engine.
 
What To Do If Your Car Overheats
 
If your car overheats, your engine light will come on, and your temperature gauge will be move from cool to hot. You may even have steam coming out of your engine. While you will need to take your vehicle in for repair, you must have your car towed to a mechanic—or follow the steps below before driving.
 
Do not drive for more than a quarter of a kilometre, then pull over to safe location Before opening the hood, wait until the temperature gauge returns to cool
 
Once it is safe to do so, check to make sure the coolant tank is full, that the radiator cap is on and tight, and that the radiator hoses are connected and not leaking. Take caution when removing or touching the radiator cap, as it can be very hot—and because steam may still be present when you remove the cap.

While you have your car in for repair, ask your mechanic to do a once-over to ensure all of your systems are functioning properly. This includes your engine, transmission, and exhaust system.