Why is My Car Overheating?

Cars run hot, typically between 195 and 200 degrees Fahrenheit. However, when you start to notice the temperature gauge tip higher than normal, it can be a sign of a critical issue with your vehicle. There are a number of reasons why a car would overheat, from a leak in the cooling system to an issue with your radiator.

When you notice your vehicle’s heat dipping outside of the “normal” range it’s important that you do not drive the car. Driving an overheated car can put you in danger and lead to costly repairs in the future. The guide below will take you through why your car is overheating and what to do when a car overheats during your New Albany or Elizabethtown commutes. 

Reasons Why a Car Overheats

When the vehicle’s temperature rises beyond normal ranges, that indicates there’s an error in an essential system that controls the release of heat in your vehicle’s system. So, what does it mean when your car overheats?

• There’s a leak in the cooling system – This is a common issue that causes cars to overheat. The radiator, hoses, water pump, head gasket, and thermostat housing are all parts of the cooling system that can be susceptible to leaks. Learn more about why your car could be leaking. 
• There’s a problem with your coolant – It may be an improper mixture of coolant-to-water (50/50 is proper) that causes your car to overheat. If you have the wrong coolant for your vehicle, it may also cause your engine to be more prone to overheating. Be sure to check your owner’s manual for the manufacturer-recommended coolant mixture. 
• There’s a blockage in the coolant hose – As dirt and debris get kicked up on the roads around Elizabethtown, there’s the potential for them to get into the cooling system. When this happens, your coolant hose can become blocked and lead to heat issues in the system.
• There’s an issue with the radiator – A blockage, leak, or damage to the radiator fan is also another common reason why a car would overheat. Radiator issues prevent the engine from properly cooling. 
• Your car’s water pump is broken – The water pump is what sends the engine coolant throughout the cooling system. If your water pump has a leak or a shifted pump shaft, it can lead to failures in the system that cause the car to overheat. 

What to Do When a Car Overheats on the Road

Typically, it’s when you’ve settled into your trips around Lexington that your car shows signs of overheating. Until it’s safe to pull over, you can help an overheating car by turning off a running air condition system and turning on the heat at full blast. While it may be uncomfortable, it can help pull heat off your engine. Once you’re able to safely park the car, you should let the car cool down for at least 30 minutes before you attempt to pop the hood by hand. 

Maintain your safety and the safety of others on the road and do not drive your vehicle. It’s best that you call a towing service and have your car delivered to the mechanic of your choice. The Toyota of Louisville service center is more than equipped to diagnose and repair your heating issues. 

Schedule Service at Toyota of Louisville 

If an overheating car or any other issue is interrupting your Louisville drives, schedule an appointment at the Toyota of Louisville service center. Our team of certified technicians will diagnose the problem and get you back on the road with high-quality service and OEM parts. Learn more about the recommended routine maintenance schedule to help catch these issues before they become larger problems.