What Happens When A Car Overheats?

Picture yourself driving your car one day, when suddenly, an unusual noise emanates from under the hood, accompanied by billowing steam. Sensing trouble, you manage to pull over and promptly turn off the engine. Your vehicle has fallen victim to an overheated engine, but what could be the root cause?

There exist several factors that can lead to a car overheating, all of which we will delve into below. While overheating incidents are often associated with summertime conditions, they can occur at any time. Here are the primary culprits behind automotive overheating:

1. Insufficient Engine Coolant – In most vehicles, a cooling fluid known as "coolant," comprising a mixture of antifreeze and water, serves the crucial role of dissipating heat and maintaining a safe operating temperature. However, when coolant levels drop too low, the engine becomes susceptible to overheating. Excessive heat can even cause a piston to seize within the cylinder, resulting in severe engine damage.
2. Faulty Thermostat – Positioned between the engine and the radiator, the thermostat acts as a gatekeeper for coolant flow. It remains closed until the engine reaches the typical operating temperature of around 200 degrees Fahrenheit. A malfunctioning thermostat can hinder the release of coolant, leading to escalating temperatures within the engine. Prolonged exposure to heat might eventually cause the vehicle to stall, accompanied by plumes of smoke emerging from the engine bay.
3. Defective Water Pump – Responsible for circulating coolant throughout the car's cooling system, a malfunctioning water pump can disrupt this crucial process, leading to inadequate heat dissipation and, subsequently, engine overheating.
4. Compromised Radiator – The radiator's network of tubes plays a critical role in cooling the coolant as it traverses through the engine. Typically situated at the vehicle's front, the radiator facilitates heat dissipation by allowing air to pass through the grille as you drive, effectively whisking away hot air. Even when stationary, the radiator maintains airflow using its fans. Any obstructions to the radiator or damage to the fans can impede the cooling process and result in a rise in engine temperature.
5. The team at emergency Car Rescue fervently hopes that your car never falls victim to an overheating episode. Nevertheless, if you do find yourself in such a predicament, rest assured that we offer top-notch 24-hour Towing Services in the UK. We prioritise safety and consistently place our customers' needs at the forefront. For any requirements related to roadside assistance, heavy-duty towing, or auto transport, do not hesitate to reach out to us today.