Why is My Car Overheating

An overheating engine is never a good sign. If you see your temperature gauge climbing into the red zone, it's important to pull over and call for assistance right away. While engine overheating can be caused by many things, here are some of the more common culprits.

Leaks

The cooling system in your vehicle is complex. It's composed of various parts and any leaks within the system can result in the engine overheating, especially as coolant tries to pass through hoses or the radiator itself. To identify if there's a leak issue, look for bright-colored liquid beneath your vehicle, which may be accompanied by a sweet smell.

Contaminated Coolant

Like all fluids, engine coolant should be replaced as recommended by your vehicle's manufacturer. Over time, dirt and other particles can build up and thicken the coolant. When this happens the chances of it being able to clog portions of the cooling system increases, resulting in the engine overheating.

Worn Out Parts

As crucial parts of the cooling system wear down and malfunction, this can lead to overheating. The radiator works in conjunction with fans to keep coolant at a proper temperature. When it malfunctions, the engine cannot be properly cooled. In addition, if your car's water pump stops performing optimally, it may not produce enough pressure to get coolant where it needs to go. A worn belt can also diminish the efficiency of your water pump and potentially lead to overheating issues.

If you are concerned about your engine overheating, contact our auto service team in Phoenix, AZ. We will thoroughly inspect your vehicle to identify the cause and help keep your vehicle running properly on the road.

* For informational purposes only. For an official diagnosis and details on your vehicle, please schedule an appointment with our dealership.