Why Is My Car Overheating?

car engine

If your car is overheating, you’ve got to start asking the right questions as soon as possible! Although there are numerous possible answers to the question, “Why is my car overheating?” one thing that will never change is that running hot could cause major damage to core components.

Knowing what to do when a car overheats is at least as important as knowing what causes a car to overheat, so we’ve covered both in detail below.

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What To Do If Your Car Is Overheating

If your car is operating far above its normal temperature range–most run between 195 and 200 degrees Fahrenheit–pull over as soon as it’s safe to do so! Although you might be able to let it cool down and then drive straight to a local service center near Deptford or Voorhees, calling a tow truck might be a safer (and ultimately less costly) option.

If you absolutely have to drive with an overheating vehicle, turn off the AC and run your heat at full blast to pull some of the hot air off your engine. If you do pull over, wait at least 30 minutes to pop the hood if you don’t want to wind up with a burn.

What Does It Mean When Your Car Overheats?

There are a wide range of factors that can cause a car to start overheating. Here, we’ve highlighted the most likely reasons a car would overheat:

  • Cooling System Leak – This is probably the most common cause of an overheating engine. If any component in your cooling system–which includes your radiator, hoses, water pump, head gasket, and thermostat casket–starts to leak, you’re in trouble.
  • Coolant Loss or Improper Mixture – Make sure you’re using the right coolant in your vehicle. Most coolant is a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and water, but you should ask a service expert if you’re unsure of what to use.
  • Coolant Hose Blockage – Even if you don’t notice any fluid dripping from your coolant hose, a blockage within the system could be causing your car to overheat. This problem is relatively easy to fix, but you may want to trust an expert with the job.
  • Radiator Issues – Leaks and blockages can cause your car to overheat, but these issues usually aren’t as expensive to repair as a problem with your radiator. Of course, you should check your radiator fluid (it should be green) before jumping to conclusions.
  • Broken Water Pump – Your water pump is responsible for moving coolant throughout your vehicle. If your pump is leaking or the shaft has shifted, coolant will have trouble reaching the vulnerable parts of your engine, and overheating could occur.
  • Expired Oil – When was your last oil change? If your engine’s lifeblood becomes dirty and clogged with debris, it won’t be able to distribute heat effectively. This might cause your engine block to overheat, and lead to permanent damage.

What does it mean when your car overheats? You shouldn’t have to isolate the problem on your own. Although we’re happy to help the driver who’s interested in DIY car care and maintenance, overheating vehicles are almost always best left to the experts. Schedule service at the earliest opportunity.

You Can Count On The Service Department At Chevrolet Of Turnersville

If you’re wondering why your car is overheating, and you haven’t yet found the time to make it into a service center, there’s a good chance that the potential cost of repairs is what’s keeping you away.

Don’t let a small problem turn into a major one. Visit our service department near Cherry Hill and find out how Synchrony Car Care™ can make your service more affordable.
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