Here is the scenario: you are driving on the highway, and all of a sudden, your car starts to overheat. You haul over to the side of the highway, pop the hood, and see that the engine is boiling! What could be wrong? Do not worry – we have got you covered.
In this blog post, Glendale Nissan will walk you through some potential causes of an overheating car engine and what you can do to remedy them. So, take a deep breath, relax, and read on. We promise that you will know exactly what is wrong with your car and how to fix it by the time you finish reading this blog post!
Car Overheating: Possible Causes
Among common reasons for car overheating is a clogged or damaged radiator. This can be due to corrosion, debris, or other damage. You might need to clean or even replace your radiator to remedy this issue.
Another potential cause is poor engine cooling system maintenance. If your automobile's cooling system is not working properly due to a lack of maintenance (such as regular fluid changes), it will eventually overheat. To prevent this, ensure that you keep up with regular care and maintenance for your car's cooling system.
Worn-out belts, low coolant levels, dirty air filters, and the obstructed fan belt or fan blades are also potential culprits. If you're not sure what's causing your car to overheat, it's best to take it to a mechanic for diagnosis.
Even coolant levels can cause automobile overheating. If your coolant level is low, be sure to add more coolant (also called antifreeze) to your car's radiator. You can usually find coolant at auto parts stores. When adding coolant, make sure to follow the instructions in your car's owner manual.
How To Fix My Overheating Engine?
If you're lucky, it may just be a matter of adding coolant to your radiator. But if the problem is more serious, such as a blown head gasket, you'll need to take your ride to a mechanic for repairs.
In the meantime, there are a few things you can do to help prevent your car from overheating:
- Check your coolant level regularly and add coolant as needed
- Check your car's hoses and belts regularly for leaks or damage
- Have your cooling system rinsed and refilled with fresh coolant every 30,000 miles or so
- Keep your car's engine clean and free of debris
- Use a quality motor oil that has a high viscosity rating
If your car does happen to overheat, don't panic. Just turn off the engine and let it cool down for a few minutes. Then, check the radiator to see if it needs more coolant. If not, start the engine and turn on the heater to help cool down the engine.
Glendale Nissan, serving West Covina, CA, is dedicated to making sure your car runs smoothly. Our certified mechanics are here to answer all of your car overheating questions and help you get back on the road safely.
