You are all set and driving for that long weekend at your favorite resort. Suddenly the temperature gauge moves into the red zone, getting you terrified and annoyed at the same time. Your car is overheating, and driving on can lead to serious and permanent damage. When your vehicle overheats, stop driving, figure the cause, or have it towed to an expert.
But what causes overheating besides a hot summer day?
A damaged radiator
Probably the fan is damaged, or the radiator is physically damaged after an accident. A faulty radiator affects how the coolant functions. The coolant may stay too warm, causing overheating.
Faulty Hoses
Clogged, damaged, cracked, or loose hoses can cause leaking in the coolant, obstructing its flow leading to overheating.
A problem with the water pump
A water-pump pumps the coolant through the engine absorbing extra heat. If it malfunctions, it impairs the coolant's flow, causing your car to overheat.
A defective thermostat
A thermostat is a temperature-controlled coolant regulator. It restricts the coolant from coursing through the engine. When faulty, it remains closed, preventing the needed coolant from coursing the engine leading to overheating if not detected.
Low oil level
The engine oil in your vehicle helps in the cooling process preventing the buildup of heat. When the oil level drops, the cooling process is affected, and the excessive heat accumulates, resulting in overheating.
Always make sure your car sustains an appropriate temperature with regular maintenance. Overheating can significantly threaten your safety if ignored. Consider these tips to prevent overheating regular maintenance.
Flush your radiator
This, also known as a coolant flush, should be carried out by professionals like our auto repair shop. They will drain the old coolant, clean with flush fluid, and add new coolant. After every 40,000 miles, a flush is recommended.
Add engine coolant
With regular maintenance and checkup, if the coolant level is low, refill to the appropriate level. However, you should never add a coolant to a hot engine to prevent burns and other damages.
Turn on the floor air vents
It is recommended to direct the air through the floor vents. This is because hot air rises, circulate cool air from the bottom to push the hot air out.
Above all, nothing works better than an expert's advice and maintenance. For such expertise, call us today and bring in your vehicle for maintenance in our auto repair shop today.