If your car is overheating, you might notice steam coming from the hood or that your engine temperature gauge is in the red area. When you see these or other signs, it’s time to head for your local mechanic. They’ll identify the source of your problem.

What Causes Cars to Overheat?

1. Cooling System Failure

Your car’s cooling system sends liquid coolant through passages in the engine; the coolant picks up heat from the engine as it moves through these passages. It then goes to the radiator, where it is cooled before being returned to absorb more heat. 

Over time, the passages that coolant flows through (hoses, canals, engine block) can get clogged due to scale buildup from water or hoses that are too small and thus prone to clogging. As a result, the coolant won't be able to flow through your engine. Your mechanic will find the source of the clog, flush the engine out, and might recommend a higher quality coolant that prevents clogging.

2. Faulty Thermostat

Your thermostat has the vital function of regulating coolant. When the engine is cold, the thermostat closes and stops the flow of coolant. Conversely, when the engine is close to its working temperature, the thermostat opens and allows coolant to flow through the system to maintain a steady temperature. If your thermostat is stuck in the closed position, coolant will not be released and your engine will overheat.

A faulty thermostat can be the result of wear and tear. Alternatively, it could be the result of poor installation. To fix it, your mechanic will likely replace it with a new one, with new gaskets to prevent leaks. You might ask your mechanic about fail-safe options that stay open in the event of an issue.

 3. Low Oil

Oil lubricates the components of your engine so that they move smoothly; when oil gets low, there is increased friction between parts of the engine, which can generate heat and lead to overheating. For a newer car, this issue will be easy to identify because you’ll have a warning sign on your dashboard.

Your mechanic will replenish your oil supply. They’ll work with you to determine and follow a maintenance schedule that’ll ensure this preventable issue doesn’t happen again. 

In search of quality and affordable mechanics? Go to Ken Marcotte's Professional Auto Service in Loveland, OH.  They’re a reputable auto service provider with experience diagnosing and repairing a range of vehicles. Their experienced mechanics will keep you informed about your options and the repair process. Maintenance is the key to keeping your car running smoothly; they offer brake service, wheel alignments, and much more. Call (513) 683-7852 to drive away with that new car feeling. Read about their tune-ups and auto sales online.