You depend on your engine to power your car so you can get to work, the grocery store, and other important locations. But if your engine overheats, you could find yourself stranded on the side of the road, facing a hefty repair bill. This is especially true if your engine fails entirely. Some basic automotive care will help you prevent many of the issues that can lead to an overheated engine.

What Causes Engines to Overheat?

Trouble with the cooling system is typically the primary cause behind your engine overheating. A leak that occurs in the radiator, hoses, water pump, or head gasket will cause you to lose coolant, which stabilizes engine temperature. Coolant is usually green, pink, or orange — check for this fluid under your car if you suspect a leak. Putting the wrong coolant in your car will also keep the system from functioning properly.

Clogs or breakdowns of other cooling system components can also cause the engine to overheat. Radiator or hose clogs will prevent heat from escaping the engine, while a damaged water pump will prevent coolant from being properly dispersed.

Addressing an Overheated Engine

Basic automotive care for your coolant system will help you avoid a breakdown. Coolant should be recharged after two to five years to maximize performance. If you suspect a leak or clog, get a mechanic to find the source of the trouble and address necessary repairs as soon as possible.

When the engine begins to overheat, turning on the heater will help keep the engine from failing until you can get it to a mechanic. The sooner you get repairs, the less likely you are to need to replace your engine entirely.

If you find yourself in need of automotive care, contact Springdale Automotive. Serving the Greater Cincinnati, OH area since 1987, their combination of car repairs and 24/7 towing assistance ensures you’ll get fast, qualified help when you encounter car troubles. To learn more about their services, visit them online or call (513) 860-2760.