Why Is My Car Overheating?

There are multiple reasons why a car would overheat. Causes can range from a leak in the cooling system to a faulty radiator. Each car has its own “normal” temperature, but most average somewhere around 195 and 200 degrees Fahrenheit. If, as you start the car, you see a significantly higher temperature on the gauge, you will not want to drive the car. A car that overheats can be quite dangerous and could lead to expensive repairs in the future.

Take an in-depth look at what causes a car to overheat with Cornerstone Plymouth. If you have questions about how to properly maintain your vehicle, we would be glad to assist you.

What Does It Mean When Your Car Overheats?

An overheated car is a warning sign of a bigger problem. Here are a few potential causes:

• There’s a leak in the cooling system – One of the most common causes of overheating is a leak in the cooling system. The radiator, hoses, water pump, head gasket, and thermostat housing are all components of the cooling system, and all can be susceptible to leaks.

• There’s a problem with your coolant – If you used the wrong coolant or the coolant-to-water ratio (50/50 is proper) is not correct, it can lead to an overheated engine.

• There’s a blockage in the coolant hose – Dirt and debris can get in your cooling system, causing a blockage.

• There’s an issue with the radiator – Radiator issues are another common reason a car would overheat. Problems can range from a blockage, a leak, or something wrong with the radiator fan.

• Your car’s water pump is broken – The water pump sends engine coolant throughout the cooling system. A leak could lead to overheating.

What to Do When a Car Overheats

What happens when your car overheats on the roads of Maple Grove? If the air conditioning is on, you will want to shut it off. Surprisingly, you should run the heat at full blast. Why should you do this? It will pull heat away from the engine. Pull over as soon as possible when you can safely do so. You will not want to open the hood for at least a half hour. The best way to maintain your safety and that of nearby drivers is to call a towing service to pick your car up and bring it to your mechanic of choice.

Trust the Team at Cornerstone Plymouth

If your car overheats, be sure to let the professionals at Cornerstone Plymouth inspect your vehicle. We can help diagnose the issue and get your vehicle back on the roads of Minnetonka. Remember that keeping up with routine maintenance is one of the best ways to prevent your car from overheating. For more information, contact the team at Cornerstone Plymouth.