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Overheated Engine? Here’s What You Need to Know

An overheated engine can damage your car beyond repair. For tips on preventing and dealing with extreme heat under the hood, read this post by Oils RGV in Mission.

Your engine is like the heart of your vehicle, so you must protect it from overheating. Extreme heat under the hood can cause severe mechanical damage if left untreated. As such, this post will explain what an overheating engine is, how to prevent it, and more. If you are interested, read on!

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Main Causes of an Overheated Engine

Understanding the main causes of engine overheating is vital for preventing this issue. Of course, there are many reasons why the temperature under the hood rises. Some problems require simple repairs, while others can be more complex and costly. In any case, beware of these common causes:

Malfunctioning Thermostat

The thermostat is a crucial component of the cooling system. Its primary function is to restrict the coolant's flow toward the radiator. It acts as a valve that opens when the temperature of the coolant exceeds the engine operating temperature. If the thermostat gets stuck in the closed position, the coolant cannot flow toward the radiator to cool down. As a result, the coolant overheats quickly, and so does the machine.

Low Coolant Level

Coolant is a mixture of water and antifreeze that helps to keep the engine at the right temperature. If the coolant level is low, the machine can overheat and develop irreversible damage. Given the gravity of such a risk, check and top the coolant level off as needed.

Faulty Water Pump

A malfunctioning water pump is another common cause of engine overheating. This pumping device pushes the coolant around the engine cylinder. When it fails, the coolant cannot flow as it should, leading to overheating and other problems. Therefore, a faulty water pump must be replaced by a professional mechanic as soon as possible.

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How to Deal with an Overheated Engine

Dealing with an overheated car can be stressful, especially if you don't know how to react or what to do. Follow these steps to safely and effectively handle this hazard:

If your engine is overheating, you should pull over to a safe location as soon as possible. Turn off the engine and let it cool down for at least 30 minutes.
Once the engine has cooled down, open the hood and check the coolant level in the radiator. If the fluid level is low, add more coolant to the radiator. If you don't have any coolant on hand, top it off with water.
Look for any signs of coolant leaking from the radiator or hoses. Immediately take your car to a certified shop if you see a leak.
Make sure the radiator fan is working correctly. You must take it to your trusted mechanic for repair if it's not working.
Check the serpentine belt. If the belt is loose or broken, the water pump won't function properly, causing the engine to overheat.
After adding coolant and checking for leaks, start the engine and drive slowly. Monitor the temperature gauge and watch for any warning signs of further engine damage.
Take your car to a mechanic immediately. Neglecting an overheated engine could cause very costly and even irreversible damage.

How to Prevent Engine Overheating

There are several things you can do to prevent your engine from overheating. Here are some tips to keep your vehicle cool and running smoothly:

Check your coolant level at least once a month or before any long drives.
Another way to prevent anoverheated engineis to regularly check your radiator for any signs of damage or leaks. If you notice any issues, have your radiator inspected by a professional.
Ensure your engine's cooling system works properly. This includes the water pump, thermostat, and radiator fan. If any of these components are faulty, your engine may overheat. So, check your owner's manual for recommended maintenance intervals for these components, and have them inspected as needed.
Finally, be mindful of how you drive your vehicle. Aggressive driving can stress your engine and cause it to overheat. So, be sure to drive your car in a manner that is appropriate for the road conditions and obey all traffic laws.