It’s obvious when a car runs, the fuel burns, and heat is produced in the combustion process. But what if the heat is not exhausted? The engine will stop working after a while and can create some severe damage.
So, that’s where the cooling system comes into play. It circulates the coolant in the vehicle, which regulates the optimum temperature in the car.
Does your car heat up after driving for a few minutes? To keep your vehicle running in a healthy condition and avoid long-term damage, you must check if you are using the proper coolant.
Imagine going to a beach with friends, and suddenly your car stops, with disaster strikes. The engine has started producing smoke, and you all are pulling the vehicle. Although it’s an iconic scene in many movies, is it annoying and tiring simultaneously?
Is your car engine overheating even with the coolant? To learn how to deal with such situations, read this comprehensive guide.
The Role Of Cooling System
The Cooling system ensures the excess heat produced in the engine is absorbed or exhausted. Also, it makes sure the other mechanical parts are not damaged.
Generally, the car temperature with a coolant is about 200 degrees. Without this antifreeze fluid, the engine temperature can reach 400 degrees F.
Why Does The Cooling System Fail?
There may be some cases when the vehicle starts overheating, even if your car has enough coolant. The reason can be anything:
- Low Coolant level
- The coolant might have expired and need to be refilled.
- The coolant doesn’t match your vehicle.
Sometimes, it’s not the coolant that causes the problem; it can be the mechanical failure of any of the other components, such as
- Thermostat
- water pump
- serpentine belt
- Radiator
- Fuses
- cooling fan, or a
- an airflow issue
Is It Safe To Drive An Overheating Car?
Of course not! But still, if your car is still running, the issue has not worsened, and the problem can be diagnosed. Taking the car to a car repair center is suggested to prevent significant losses. Suppose you have identified the problem and are still taking the risk of driving your vehicle. Then, there is a high chance that the engine will warp, and repair will cost you several bucks.
How To Identify If Your Engine Is Overheating?
You can prevent irreversible damage if you already know the signs of engine overheating. Some of the common reasons are:
- Smoke/Steam is produced from the car hood.
- The Engine temperature gauge symbols turn red. The signs may vary in different car models. You can check your car manual.
- You’ll sense a strange kind of burnt smell from the engine side.
- If you sense a sweet smell, it is usually because of leaking coolant.
If you notice any of these signs or indications, it is recommended to seek a car repair shop immediately.
Do’s: What To Do When Car Engine Overheats?
Turn Off The A/C And Crank The Heat
The first thing you need to do is to switch off your AC. The engine can’t handle the stress when overheated, which may lead to severe damage to other mechanical parts.
The next step is to turn ON the dial to maximum heat. You may experience some heat in the car. But it will help absorb the excess heat from the engine. Also, it will save you from spending on major engine repairs.
Plan To Pull Over Your Car
If your car engine has stopped working, it’s apparent that you’ll have to pull over the car. But first, let the engine cool down for 15-20 minutes. Also, check if the temperature gauge has moved back to normal.
In the meanwhile, you can plan to pull over the car. Call a tow truck or a friend or find any local help.
Check The Coolant Level & Other Components
Check if the coolant is finished or needs to be replaced. We always recommend that travelers keep the best coolant in their automobiles and learn how to add coolant to the vehicle. A quick top-off can prevent the engine from overheating.
Next, ensure whether the coolant hose is clogged or has some other mechanical problem. Is it a broken radiator fan or a water pump creating the problem?
Pro Tip: Always keep your car manual to find the exact location of the coolant reservoir tank.
Try Restarting The Engine
Stuck on the highway? Didn’t you get any help to tow your car? Well, it’s time to restart your vehicle and take it to the nearby mechanic shop.
Keep checking the temperature gauge symbols while driving the car. Take a break, and allow the system to cool down. Start over or pull the car if required. Don’t worry! It happens with most travelers.
Don’ts: What Not To Do When Engine Overheats?
Don’t Panic!
Nothing is going to work out if you panic or worry. Keep calm, relax, and think about the next step to deal with this situation. If you are stuck in traffic, you can ask for help pulling the car. Avoid taking your car to high-traffic areas; call a nearby repair shop.
Don’t Drive
If you have sensed a pungent or burnt smell, stop driving immediately. Turn off the AC to reduce the load on the engine. If your machine is still running, take your car directly to the car mechanic to avoid irreversible damage.
Don’t Pop-Up The Hood Instantly
It’s strictly recommended not to open the car hood immediately to find the issue. There is always a risk of burns & injuries due to smoke or immediate smoke generated. Wait a while and let the engine temperature gauge return to normal.
4. Don’t Delay The Problem
After you have diagnosed the issue, don’t linger on the repair. Even if you have resolved the issue or changed the coolant, please don’t leave it unaddressed; analyze the source of the problem deeply. We suggest taking your car to a car repair store for a complete vehicle inspection and fixing the problem permanently to avoid future issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the common issues with water pump belts?
It is also called a serpentine belt. It generates power for the steering and electrical system to run smoothly. Some of the most common problems like Breaking, Loose/ Worn out belts, or Whining belt noises can slow down the engine performance.
- What are the signs of a failing radiator?
- Your car/ automobile will start overheating
- Burning or leaking coolant smell.
- Car AC will produce heat instead of cool air.
- Warning signs may appear on the engine gauge.
- You’ll find built-up sludge in the radiator.
- Low coolant levels will be displayed.
- How to recognize if the COOLING SYSTEM IS not GETTING ENOUGH AIRFLOW?
Airflow, along with the coolant, helps the car engine to operate at a smooth temperature. In case of Airflow failure, your car will start overheating even if the coolant level is optimum and it is of good quality.
Wrapping up
Your buddies may leave you, but your car will never go if taken care of properly. We have discussed the best ways to deal with engine overheating. Stay updated with your vehicle by doing coolant flushes and exchanges to maintain radiator performance, which can prevent significant expenses regularly. We always recommend regular inspections to diagnose potential issues and fix them before they worsen.
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