Cars are amazing machines. With just the swing of a key, they can take you wherever you want to go. But like every other machine, they need proper care and maintenance to run well. Among the most important things to keep an eye on is your car’s engine temperature.
When it gets too high, your car can overheat, leading to expensive repair bills and, even worse, engine damage. In this blog post, Feldman CDJR of Clarkston will give you some tips on what to do when your car overheats so that you can avoid costly repairs. Stay cool!
Engine Overheating: What Is It & Why Does It Happen?
Engine overheating is a common problem that many drivers experience. It occurs when an engine gets too hot, typically due to issues with the cooling system or other problems with the car’s engine.
There are multiple reasons why your ride may be overheating. Some of the most common causes include a clogged radiator and/or coolant passages, dirty or low-quality engine oil, mechanical problems like faulty fan belts and water pumps, worn out hoses, valve and cylinder head damage, or blocked air intakes.
Additionally, some cars can overheat if they aren’t driven often enough or parked in the sun for long periods.
What To Do If My Car’s Engine Overheats?
If you ever notice that your car is running hotter than normal, these are the steps you should take:
- Safely and carefully pull over to the side of the roadway and turn off the engine as soon as possible. Do not attempt to drive your ride any further.
- Once the engine is off, open the hood and prop it up with the hood prop or a stick. This will allow heat to escape and cool down the engine faster.
- If you have a radiator cap, remove it so that steam can escape. Be extra cautious while you do this, as the steam can be very hot and cause burns.
- Check the level of your coolant and add more if necessary. Most cars have a 50/50 mix of water and coolant, so check your owner’s manual to see what yours requires.
- Start the car’s engine and let it idle for a few minutes. If the temperature gauge needle moves into the normal range, you can slowly drive your car home or to a nearby service station.
If your car overheats and these tips don’t seem to be helping, it’s best to call a tow truck and have your automobile towed to a nearby service station or dealership. There may be a bigger problem with your engine that needs to be fixed by a professional.
Feldman CDJR of Clarkston, serving Wixom, MI, and surrounding areas, is your go-to source for automotive repair. Whether you require a quick oil change, an engine tune-up, or more extensive car repairs, our pro mechanics will get the job done right.
If your car overheats or develops other problems during the summer months – don’t worry! Just stop by our dealership today for a friendly and reliable repair service that will have you back on the road in no time at all.
Visit us online to schedule an appointment today!
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