Why is My Car Overheating?

One of the most alarming situations for any Cleveland driver is seeing the temperature gauge on the dashboard start to rise into the red zone. If you’ve ever asked yourself why your car is overheating, you’re not alone. This is a common issue that can stem from a variety of causes. Understanding what causes a car to overheat and knowing what to do when a car overheats are crucial for maintaining your vehicle’s health and ensuring your safety on the road.

What It Means When Your Car Overheats

When you notice your car’s temperature gauge rising or see steam coming from under the hood, you might askwhat it means when your car overheats. 

An overheating engine is a sign that something is wrong, and it should not be ignored. Continuing to drive in Northfield with an overheating engine can lead to severe damage, such as a warped cylinder head or a cracked engine block, which are costly to repair.

What Causes a Car to Overheat?

There are several reasons a car would overheat, ranging from simple fixes to more complex mechanical issues. Here are some reasons a car would overheat: 

• Low Coolant Levels: One of the primary reasons a car would overheat is low coolant levels. Coolant, also known as antifreeze, is essential for regulating your engine’s temperature. If your coolant levels are too low, your engine won’t be able to dissipate heat effectively, leading to overheating.
• Faulty Thermostat: The thermostat regulates the flow of coolant to the engine. If it’s stuck closed, coolant can’t reach the engine, causing it to overheat. This is a common culprit in why your car is overheating.
• Blocked Radiator: The radiator plays a crucial role in cooling the engine by dissipating heat. A blockage in the radiator can restrict the flow of coolant, causing the engine to overheat.
• Broken Water Pump: The water pump is responsible for circulating coolant through the engine. If it’s malfunctioning, the coolant won’t flow properly, leading to overheating.
• Leaking Head Gasket: A blown head gasket can cause coolant to leak, reducing its effectiveness and leading to overheating.

What to Do When a Car Overheats

If you find yourself in a situation where your car is overheating, it’s important to know what to do when a car overheats to minimize damage and ensure your safety:

• Turn off the air conditioning. Running the A/C puts additional strain on the engine. Instead, turn on the heater to help draw heat away from the engine.
• As soon as you notice the temperature gauge rising, find a safe place to pull over. Turn off the engine to prevent further damage.
• Once the engine has cooled down, check the coolant level. If it’s low, topping it off may solve the problem temporarily, but be sure to have your car inspected by a professional.
• Do not open the radiator cap Immediately. If your car is overheating, the coolant in the radiator is under pressure and very hot. Opening the radiator cap immediately can cause serious burns.

What it Means When Your Car Overheats: Learn More at North Coast Mitsubishi Bedford

Knowing what causes a car to overheat is the first step. But if you’re ever unsure about why your car is overheating, it’s best to consult a professional mechanic to diagnose and fix the issue. For expert car care and maintenance, schedule an appointment in Bedford, Warrensville Heights.