Overheating Car Engines: Signs, Reasons & Prevention

Overheating car engine is not an issue you can ignore for too long. The engine and its components are designed to endure a certain amount of heat. If the heat generated by the combustion becomes too intense, it can cause irreparable damage. It can melt and warp the engine block, weathering the internal wires of the system. However, the issue can be due to a number of reasons. The only way to save your car from serious damage is to identify the cause of overheating and get it fixed.

Let’s explore the prime causes of engine overheating in a vehicle along with some tips to resolve the issue.

Causes of Overheating Car Engine

Besides a faulty cooling system, other factors can cause a vehicle’s engine to overheat. Some of these may only need a quick and easy fix, while others might require professional repair.

Let’s discuss some common car overheating causes.

Leaks in the Cooling System

A leaking cooling system is one of the primary reasons for an overheating car engine. There could be a leak in the water siphon, hoses, radiator, indoor regulator lodging, head gasket, freeze plugs, water pump and several other components that indicate problems with the car cooling system. Therefore, the first thing you can do is check for leaks in the cooling system. In case there is a frequent need to add coolant in the system, then its better that you get your car checked by a professional.

Paper, Dirt or Debris Blocking the Radiator Airflow

Another possible reason of overheating in a vehicle is the accumulation of dirt and debris blocking the radiator airflow. In that case, open the car’s bonnet and see if there’s any plastic bag, cotton wood, trash or any other deterrent blocking the front of the radiator or grill.

If heat cannot be transferred out of the antifreeze or the airflow is blocked, the engine would inevitably heat up. Therefore, keep checking parts for debris accumulation, specifically between the radiator and condenser. A car wash hose by yourself can also help to clear out the trash.

Faulty Radiator

cause of overheating car engine — A faulty radiatorcan cause engine to overheat

Any leakage or obstructions may hinder a car radiator’s function, because the radiator cannot extract the heat from the cooling system. Therefore, it’s best to ensure the radiator’s performance and don’t ignore the symptoms of a bad radiator on a timely basis, else your car’s engine will overheat.

Faulty Water Pump

The water pump is an essential part of a car’s cooling system. If the pump is not working properly, it means there is not sufficient pressure. As a result, the motor coolant cannot spread throughout the cooling system. Problems like spills or erosions may cause the engine to overheat.

Worn Out Hoses

Worn out hoses are among the common causes of overheating in a vehicle. Look out for gaps and splits in hoses, as this may crack the motor and disrupt the flow of coolant. If the hose is broken or worn out, the circulation of coolant will be interrupted by the water pump, given the coolant may have leaked or spilt out from any of the hoses.

Low Oil Level

overheating car engine — Low oil level in car causes the engine to heat up

One of the reasons for car engine overheating is low level of motor oil. Motor oil is vital to regulate the entire temperature under the vehicle’s bonnet. If the level of oil is less than the recommended level, then the car engine may heat up.

Failed Thermostat

bad car thermostat — If a car’s thermostat does not works, it will heat up the engine

Thermostats in cars control the engine’s temperature.. A faulty thermostat will not be able to do its job and hinders the flow of coolant as it was supposed to flow in the vehicle. Look out for symptoms of bad thermostat and take timely measure.

Loose or Broken Water Pump Belts

If the water pump’s belt in your car is broken or loose, it will thus be difficult to maintain the appropriate volume of coolant stream. This is because the water pump belts aid the coolant flow. Hence incorrect volume may cause the engine to overheat.

Concentration of Coolant

There must always be the right type of coolant with the appropriate blend of distilled water and coolant liquid in your vehicle at all times. One of the major causes of overheating car engines is an inappropriate concentration of coolant. If you have not taken your car for regular maintenance and also not sure about the current concentration of coolant, then flush the cooling system right away. This is mandatory, as inappropriate coolant concentration may cause the car engine to overheat.

Engine Overheating Consequences

consequence of overheating car engine — The heat produced in engine may damage other auto parts as well

Although engines are built for better endurance and durability, excessive heat production can still cause serious damage. When heat generated by the vehicle’s motor shoots above the normal operating temperature, the cooling system devices designed to ebb the heat away may begin to fail. When they do so, it damages not just the engine but also the gaskets, hoses, seals and other components that work with the engine.

How to Prevent Your Car from Overheating

Here are some useful tips to help you prevent permanent engine damage from occurring.

Keep a regular check on coolant levels
Keep an extra bottle of new antifreeze along with a gallon of water in your vehicle’s storage
Keep an eye on the car’s thermostat while driving
Cool the engine down as soon as you detect signs of overheating
Stay regular and updated on coolant service flushes

The general rule of thumb when you’re running with an overheating car engine is to stop driving, pull over, turn off the vehicle, and tow it to the closest service centre. While we have explained the common and probable causes of an overheated engine, it is always best to let a professional diagnose and fix the issue.

If overheating in a vehicle is consistent and occurs despite regular maintenance, then it might be time to replace the engine. But if you wish to buy another car and avoid the hassle of replacing the engine, you may consider buying a used car in the UAE at affordable rates. An array of second-hand cars is listed on dubizzle for sale, you may find a vehicle in your budget. Some of the popular car brands you may find on the website include:

Stay tuned to UAE’s top auto blog for more detailed guide on repair and maintenance of various auto parts and accessories.

Common Causes of Car Overheating