Why Is My Car Overheating?

Man in a tie examines a car engine emitting smoke on a residential street.

Why is my car overheating? Whether your vehicle is new or pre-owned, discovering overheating issues can be concerning, indicating potential underlying problems that require immediate attention. Typically, cars operate within a temperature range of 90 to 93 degrees Celsius. If your temperature gauge shows a significant deviation from this range upon starting your car in Brandon or Portage la Prairie, it’s crucial to avoid driving further to prevent worsening issues and expensive repairs. But what causes a car to overheat? This article explores:

What causes a car to overheat?
What does it mean when your car overheats?
What to do when a car overheats

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Get the Answer to, “Why Is My Car Overheating?”

When your car overheats, it’s a clear indication that there’s a significant underlying issue. Here are possibilities on what causes a car to overheat:

Cooling System Leak: A leak in components such as the radiator, hoses, water pump, head gasket, or thermostat housing can disrupt the cooling system, causing overheating.
Coolant Issues: Incorrect coolant type or improper coolant-to-water ratio (typically 50/50) can make the engine more prone to overheating.
Coolant Hose Blockage: Debris or dirt in the coolant hoses can obstruct the flow of coolant, leading to overheating.
Radiator Problems: Issues like blockages, leaks, or malfunctioning radiator fans can prevent proper heat dissipation, resulting in overheating.
Faulty Water Pump: A malfunctioning water pump, whether due to leaks or a shifted pump shaft, can disrupt the circulation of coolant through the system, causing overheating.

What Does It Mean When Your Car Overheats?

What happens when your car overheats? It signals an underlying issue needing immediate attention. Here’s what it typically indicates:

What Does It Mean When Your Car Overheats?

Potential Engine Damage: Overheating can severely damage engine components if left unchecked.
Safety Risks: Driving with an overheated engine can lead to complete failure or pose a fire hazard.
Early Detection: Recognizing overheating early helps prevent costly repairs and ensures safety on the roads of Dauphin.

What to Do When a Car Overheats

Wondering what to do when a car overheats? Experiencing an overheating engine while driving demands prompt action to prevent further damage and ensure safety:

Turn Off the A/C: If your air conditioning is running, switch it off immediately. Running the heater on full blast, though uncomfortable, can help in dissipating some of the engine’s heat.
Pull Over Safely: As soon as it’s safe to do so, pull over to the side of the road. Avoid opening the hood by hand for at least 30 minutes to prevent injury from escaping steam or hot coolant.
Seek Professional Assistance: Contact a towing service to transport your vehicle to a trusted mechanic. Attempting to drive an overheating car risks severe engine damage and poses a hazard to other drivers.

You Can Count On Our Service Department in Winnipeg!

Should your car overheat, rely on our skilled technicians at the Capital Lincoln Winnipeg service department to swiftly return you to the road. Regular maintenance helps identify potential overheating issues early. Schedule your next service with us today and benefit from our available service coupons.

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