No one wants to see steam rising from under the bonnet or the temperature gauge creeping into the red! An overheating car can leave you stranded and lead to damage that can be hard and expensive to fix.
At Car Care Joondalup, we’ve seen it all, from small issues that just needed a top-up of coolant to major problems caused by neglect. Here’s the most common reasons cars overheat and what you can do about it.
Low Coolant Levels
Coolant is like your engine’s drink of water, without enough of it, your car can’t regulate its temperature. Low coolant levels are one of the most common reasons for overheating, often caused by leaks in hoses, the radiator or the water pump.
Check your coolant reservoir regularly, especially before long drives. If you’re topping it up often, it’s time for a professional inspection to track down the leak.
Faulty Thermostat
Your car’s thermostat controls the flow of coolant through the engine. When it’s stuck closed, coolant can’t circulate, leaving your engine hot and bothered.
A faulty thermostat needs to be replaced professionally, it’s not a DIY job. Luckily, it’s a relatively inexpensive fix when handled by experts.
Radiator Problems
The radiator is like your car’s cooling fan, it helps dissipate heat. If it’s clogged, leaking or its fan has failed, your engine won’t cool down properly.
Regular radiator servicing is essential. If your radiator is blocked with debris or it’s rusted, it may need flushing or repair. For serious damage, replacement may be the only option. Either way, a visit to your local auto shop in Joondalup will keep you out of the danger zone.
Broken Water Pump
The water pump is the heart of your cooling system, circulating coolant through the engine. When it fails, your car can quickly overheat. Common signs include leaks, whining noises, or steam.
A water pump replacement is a job for skilled mechanics. At Car Care Joondalup, our team can diagnose and repair water pump issues quickly to get you back on the road safely.
Blown Head Gasket
A blown head gasket is a serious issue that allows coolant and oil to mix, leading to overheating, white smoke from the exhaust and potential engine failure.
A blown head gasket requires major repairs. The sooner it’s diagnosed, the better your chances of saving your engine.
Drive Belt or Fan Issues
Cooling fans and drive belts play crucial roles in keeping temperatures under control. A snapped belt or broken fan means heat builds up fast, especially in traffic.
Regular maintenance checks can catch worn belts or failing fans before they leave you stranded.
What To Do If Your Car Overheats on the Road
Pull over safely and switch off the engine.
Don’t open the radiator cap immediately, it’s under pressure and can spray boiling coolant.
Wait for the engine to cool before checking coolant levels.
Call for roadside assistance or head straight to a trusted auto shop in Joondalup if the problem persists.
Most of the time, when a car overheats it’s caused by common and preventable issues. By keeping up with regular maintenance and knowing the warning signs, you can keep your car running smoothly.
So next time that temperature gauge starts creeping up, head to your trusted auto shop Joondalup for expert care. At Car Care Joondalup, our friendly team will get to the root of the problem quickly and have you back on the road with confidence. Schedule a service online now or call 9300 9796 today.