Why Is My Car Overheating? Common Reasons and Tips

While driving your car in a good mood, have you suddenly felt this: “Why is my car overheating?” then wait. You are not alone in facing this problem. Many people have the same concern related to their vehicle. Overheating in a car causes the engine to heat up. However, solutions are also possible in this era, along with the problem. Why is your car heating? What are the reasons? How can you control it? Do not worry because we have a solution for all your questions. We will see what causes your engine heat and how we will go through it.

Why Is My Car Overheating: 10 Most Common Reasons

Let’s see the reason for your question: “Why is my car overheating?“

The main reasons for Car overheating are: 

1. Coolant Quality

As a responsible car owner, you’re likely familiar with Coolant. But have you ever taken the time to check the quality of the Coolant you’re using? This simple step, which you can easily do, could be the key to preventing your car from overheating. You have the power to buy a high-quality coolant and take control of your car’s temperature. You’re wrong if you think low-quality Coolant will protect your vehicle because it is just a mixture of water and colour. Moreover, it will harm the engine. 

2. Faulty Thermostat

Faulty thermostats have many reasons, like late opening, incorrect temperature settings, or mechanical failure. This means a thermostat might open after the rising temperature and should alert. However, due to a faulty thermostat, this was not possible. If the thermostat’s temperature is set high, it may not be sufficient to pass the Coolant to flow, and this is the reason why you feel like, “Why is my car overheating?“

3. Faulty Radiator

There are many reasons for faulty radiator leaks, and holes in the radiator can reduce the coolness present in the engine. Moreover, dirt and corrosion can collect in the radiator core, blocking the passing of the Coolant. It can also be caused by cooling fan failure. If the radiator is not able to pass the Coolant, the engine may raise the temperature. Hence, the engine can overheat, and you will have to answer, “Why is my car overheating?“

4. Low Oil 

Low oil can cause overheating in cars because it is universally known that oil acts as a lubricant. Similarly, in engines, oil acts as a lubricant that reduces friction. If your engine’s quantity of oil is low, friction increases, and hence, heat is generated. It also reduces the availability of oil to absorb and disappear heat. However, oil also acts as a blocker between the piston ring and cylinder walls, breaking out the combustion between cylindrical walls.

5. Failed Water Pump 

The water pump is an important component in the cooling system, as it circulates Coolant in the engine and prevents it from heating. But if the water pump fails, the engine overheats. Dirt dust collects in the water pump, directly contributing to its failure.

6. Cracked Hoses

If you are still wondering, “Why is my car overheating?” then cracked hoses can be a problem in your car. Cracked hoses cause the engine to overheat, which is a problem. However, it can be caused by the Coolant not passing through the radiator smoothly. When the radiator hoses are broken or cracked, it causes leakage, which causes the engine to overheat and damage it. 

7. Low Coolant

Low Coolant is a problem that can be seen in all types of cars. Due to the burning of gasoline and diesel oil, cars have become hot. Moreover, if you drive with less Coolant, it overheats your car, which can cause a blow to a head gasket, and your car can shut off in the middle. You should notice the symptoms of low Coolant, which are fluctuations in the AC system and cause a smell in your car. Choosing the proper Coolant and the right amount of Coolant for your car is important.

8. Gasket Leaks

Gasket Leaks occur in cars because of access heating. The gasket plays an important role in the car’s cooling system. Whenever you feel the temperature extending beyond its usual limit, a weird smell, noises coming from the engine, or Coolant leaking from the car, it is directly related to the gasket leak. The gasket acts as a blockage between the block and the head.

9. Cooling fan broke

The cooling fan acts as AC to the diesel engine, as the engine always works while you drive your car. So, the cooling fan maintains the temperature. But if the cooling fan breaks, the temperature of the engine rises to its peak and damages your car. This happens because of some electrical faults, as this fan works on wires and electrical substances. Call the technician if you find that your cooling fan broke for any reason. 

10. New and old coolant mixture

If you are wondering, “Why is my car overheating?‘ then the reason is very simple. You are using your car in the wrong way. Never mix an old coolant with a new one. Because different coolants have different boiling temperatures, when filling out your car with Coolant, flush the old Coolant first and then use the new one. Also, check the colour, texture and everything about your new and old Coolant.

How Can I Fix It?

If you feel the car overheating while driving, follow the tips and solutions below. It will help:

• Pull over your car: If you feel, “Why is my car overheating?” then pull over your car in a safe area.
• Check the Coolant: The first thing you should check is the coolant level in your car, the main cause of car overheating is the low coolant level. As it pressurizes the engine, it can damage its condition.
• Check the leaks: If the coolant level is average, then check if there is any leak in the car; however, If your car does not have enough Coolant, problems like overheating can be caused. If there is a leakage in your car, then the Coolant will leak from there.
• Check the thermostat: If there is no leakage, check the thermostat level. Leakage can occur because the thermostat is responsible for smooth coolant flow. If the thermostat is faulty, replace it. This can be one of the important reasons for car overheating.
• Check the water pump: If you notice any leakage, check the water pump now. It circulates Coolant in the engine to prevent it from heating. 
• Check the fans: Check the fans to see if they are correctly working. If not, there must be some electrical issue. Call the mechanic and fix it. 

Conclusion

Car overheating can cause major damage, affecting your car’s condition. You should always take your car for service every 5-6 months. If you feel excessive heat in your car’s engine, it can be serious. So, these were the important reasons for car overheating. Moreover, the next time you have doubts like, “Why is my car overheating?” Check all these faults in your car with their preventions. 

Frequently Asked Questions