Why Is My Car Overheating?

An overheating engine is one of the most frustrating experiences for drivers. The problem seems so simple at first, yet, depending on the cause of the overheating scenario, things can become very complicated and expensive. Usually, overheating is a sign that you need maintenance and repair right away. The depth of the problem is only detectable with a closer examination by a professional certified auto mechanic.

Thermostat Failure

Your thermostat is responsible for telling you the heat of your systems, but it's also responsible for signaling how much coolant to deliver. If your thermostat malfunctions or breaks altogether, the right amount of coolant - or any coolant - might not make it to your radiator and other components. In addition to overheating, your vehicle might show signs of drastic changes in temperature readouts and leaks around the thermostat.

Cooling System Leak

Your coolant system needs both the proper amount of coolant and the correct type of coolant. If a leak begins, your engine won't receive the right amount of coolant. And if you put in the wrong kind of coolant, your vehicle might immediately show signs of overheating (or damage). A coolant system leak can cause a bizarrely sweet smell on the outside of your car.

Radiator Issues

The radiator is an essential system in your vehicle. It directly moves heat from the inside of the system to the outside, where it won't harm internal components. When a radiator goes out or has damage to it, overheating is often the result. A bad radiator can also cause the system to show low coolant levels and leaks on the outside of your car.

Hoses and Belts

The hoses and belts of your vehicle are abundant. They need to be strong and healthy to carry the coolant and maintain their rotations. When a hose breaks, coolant can leak out, resulting in overheating.

Water Pump

The water pump is vital to the function of your vehicle. If your water pump is bad, this can cause near-instant damage to internal components like your cylinder heads and head gasket. Because of the serious nature of the repair costs associated with those issues, be sure to get your vehicle in if it begins to overheat immediately. Damage to the water pump is sometimes visible as rust on the outside of it.

Contact ABC Nissan for Service

Don't let an overheating car make you stressed and hot-headed. Contact the professional auto mechanics at ABC Nissan for full service.