Engine Tips
Why Is My Car Overheating? Causes And What To Do
An overheating engine is a serious problem that can cause permanent damage if ignored. Here is what causes it and exactly what to do if it happens to you.
INTRODUCTION
An overheating engine is one of the most serious problems a car owner can face. Unlike a squeaking brake or a flickering warning light that can wait a few days — an overheating engine demands immediate attention. Drive too long with an overheating engine and you risk permanent and catastrophic damage that can cost thousands of dollars to repair.
The good news is that most overheating problems have clear warning signs and identifiable causes. In this guide our lead mechanic Marcus Williams walks you through every common cause of engine overheating, the warning signs to watch for and exactly what to do if it happens to you on the road.
WARNING SIGNS YOUR ENGINE IS OVERHEATING
Your car will almost always give you warning before the engine reaches a critical temperature. Here are the signs to watch for:
Temperature Gauge Rising The most obvious sign. Your temperature gauge should normally sit in the middle of its range. If it is creeping toward the red zone pull over as soon as safely possible.
Temperature Warning Light Most modern vehicles have a dedicated engine temperature warning light — usually a thermometer symbol in red. If this light comes on treat it as an emergency.
Steam Or Smoke From Under The Hood Steam rising from the engine bay is a clear sign that coolant is boiling over. Pull over immediately — this is not optional.
Sweet Smell From The Engine Bay Coolant has a distinctive sweet smell. If you notice this smell while driving it may indicate a coolant leak that is dripping onto hot engine components.
Reduced Engine Power Many modern vehicles enter a reduced power mode when the engine temperature becomes dangerously high. This is the car protecting itself — do not ignore it.
Thumping Or Knocking Sound A severe overheating episode can cause a thumping or knocking from the engine as components expand beyond their design tolerances.
CLOSING
An overheating engine is one of those problems that punishes hesitation. The sooner you pull over the smaller the repair bill. The longer you drive on it the closer you get to a full engine replacement.
If your temperature gauge is creeping up or you have noticed any of the warning signs in this guide our certified mechanics can come to your location and diagnose the problem on the spot — no tow truck needed in most cases.
Think your car might be running hot?