Would you like smoke coming out of your vehicle in the middle of your much-awaited trip? Does the thought of your engine burning on a scorching hot day in Melbourne scare you? Car overheating is a serious concern that shouldn’t be overlooked ever. It can happen anytime, anywhere. The worst part? It can permanently damage your vehicle and cost you hefty repairs.

However, having knowledge of the potential engine overheating causes and actions can help you prevent your vehicle from damaging. Here’s a complete guide by European car service in Melbourne experts on car overheating causes, consequences and how to deal with such issues. 

Consequences of Car Overheating

Engine overheating can lead to severe consequences, such as your unfunctional engine due to improper maintenance. With regular maintenance of your car’s cooling system, you can prevent engine overheating and expensive repairs.

If you notice any indications of overheating or any issue with your cooling system, it's important to address them immediately. Take your vehicle to a qualified car service in Melbourne and seek their advice. Only by regular maintenance and addressing overheating issues promptly can you protect your vehicle from severe damage and ensure its longevity.

But how do you know why is your car engine overheating? 

Reasons For Car Overheating

Here are the ten potential causes of car overheating:

   1. Leaks in the Cooling System 

One of the primary reasons behind car overheating is leaks. There could be leaks in the indoor lodging, hoses, water siphon, head gasket, water pump, freeze plugs, etc. All these can lead to issues with the car cooling system. 

Further, if you discover oil leakage in your radiator, it indicates a significant problem. There are two types of oil that can leak into your cooling system: motor oil and transmission oil. If the transmission oil cooler inside your radiator leaks, transmission oil can enter the cooling system. 

Similarly, a cracked engine head or cylinder wall can result in motor oil mixing with the radiator fluid. Both of these issues require costly repairs. As such, take your vehicle to a qualified repair shop before the problem escalates. It is unsafe to drive your car if you have a transmission oil leak, a motor oil leak, or any oil mixed with your coolant.

  2. Clogged Car Radiator 

Your vehicle’s radiator pulls heat away from the cooling system. If it is clogged due to dust and debris, it won’t work properly, leading to car overheating. To ensure the car radiator is unblocked and free of debris, open the hood of your car. 

See if there’s any deterrent, like paper, wood, trash, cotton, etc., hindering the grill or components between the grill and the radiator. Also, check between the condenser and radiator. 

A self-service car wash hose has the capability to remove a significant amount of debris. Just be cautious of not getting too close to the radiator fins and risk damaging or bending them.

   3. Ineffective Water Pump 

Your car’s water pump plays a crucial role in your cooling system. It is responsible for ensuring proper circulation of motor coolant throughout the system. If the water pump malfunctions, your car will not have enough pressure to move the coolant effectively. 

This will result in potential problems such as engine overheating. Any issues, such as corrosion, leaks, or other malfunctions, can contribute to the engine's overheating.

   4. Bad Thermostat 

Your thermostat is a key component of the cooling system. It ensures that coolant can flow through to the radiator when needed. However, if the thermostat becomes stuck in the closed position, it will prevent coolant from circulating, causing the engine to overheat. If anything like this happens, get your thermostat inspected immediately. 

   5. Burst or Worn Out Hoses 

If your hoses develop splits or gaps, it can result in a damaged motor. Further, it can interfere with the proper flow of coolant. When coolant spills out from one of these damaged hoses, it creates a situation where the water pump cannot circulate the coolant effectively.

   6. Improperly Working Radiator Fan

The primary function of your radiator fan is to draw air over the radiator, aiding in the cooling process of the coolant. However, if the fan is worn-out or the fan motor is broken, it won't be able to fulfil its role effectively, resulting in overheating.

   7. Incorrect Coolant Concentration

You must ensure to use the right coolant for your vehicle to avoid overheating. Using the wrong coolant or an improper coolant-to-water ratio can lead to overheating issues.

If you haven't been keeping up with regular vehicle maintenance or aren't aware of coolant concentration, it is recommended to perform a complete cooling system flush. Over time, coolant can become corrosive and accelerate the wear and tear of your car's cooling system.

   8. Broken or Loose Belts

If the water pump belt or any other belt is loose or broken, it will fail to maintain the correct volume of coolant flow. This can result in overheating.

   9. Low Oil Level

The engine oil facilitates the cooling process while avoiding excessive heat buildup. It is also responsible for keeping different parts of your car lubricated, thereby reducing friction and preventing overheating. Ensure the car oil levels are always up to the mark. 

What are The Common Signs Of An Overheating Car?

Here are some ways you can diagnose car overheating issues: 

• The car dashboard light comes on

• Smoke or steam emerging from beneath the hood

• A loud thumping noise near the engine compartment. 

• A distinct odour of burning oil

• Lowered engine power

• Rising temperature gauge.

How To Deal With An Overheating Car?

If you observe any of the car overheating signs, here is what you can do:

• Stop by in a safe area and turn off the vehicle.

• If you can't find a safe and clear area to stop, keep moving the car slowly. It may allow the vehicle to cool naturally due to the constant airflow around the motor. 

• Turn off the air condition unit and increase the heat to high. This may help to release additional heat away from the engine. 

• Open the windows and doors to further release the heat.

• Call a professional mechanic for assistance. 

The Takeaway 

An overheating engine is a serious issue and needs immediate attention. Often, the cause behind car overheating simply needs a low-cost repair. However, people overlook the initial problem, which turns into extensive damage. And they end up spending more money to fix a severe problem. With regular maintenance, it's easy to identify issues early on before they causes permanent damage to your vehicle. And if it still happens, do not hesitate to rush for professional assistance. If you own a Volkswagen car and your Volkswagen’s engine is overheating, then immediately you should go for Volkswagen car services in Melbourne