One of the last things you want when driving your automobile is for the engine to overheat. Not only is it a sign that something is wrong with your vehicle but it can also be dangerous and cause permanent damage to your engine. If you are experiencing constant boiling, there are several causes that you should be aware of. Here are some of the most common causes of a car overheating and what you can do to fix them.
1. Low Coolant Levels
Low coolant levels are one of the most common reasons for an engine running hot. Coolant is responsible for keeping your engine at a safe operating temperature. The engine can quickly overheat when there is not enough of it in the system. Wait until the engine has cooled down, and open the reservoir to check your coolant levels. You can add more coolant to the system if the level is low. However, it is important to check for any leaks that might be causing the coolant to drain out.
2. A Faulty Thermostat
The thermostat oversees controlling the coolant flow through the engine. When the thermostat gets blocked closed, it can prevent coolant from flowing through the system properly, causing the engine to overheat. Replacing a faulty thermostat is a relatively simple fix that a professional mechanic can do.
3. A Malfunctioning Water Pump
The water pump oversees moving coolant throughout the engine. Coolant may not flow through the system properly if the water pump malfunctions, causing the engine to overheat. Signs of a malfunctioning water pump include a whining or grinding noise from the engine, coolant leaks, or engine searing. If you suspect your water pump is faulty, it is important to have it replaced to prevent further engine damage as soon as possible.
4. A Clogged Radiator
The radiator removes heat from the engine by circulating coolant through a series of tubes. Over time, the radiator can become clogged with debris, preventing heat dissipation and causing the engine to overheat. The radiator may need to be flushed or cleaned to fix this issue.
5. A Damaged or Worn-Out Fan Belt
The fan belt drives the engine's cooling fan, which helps circulate air through the radiator. If the fan belt is damaged or worn out, the fan may not be able to spin properly, preventing proper cooling and causing the engine to overheat. Replacing a worn-out fan belt is a simple fix that a professional mechanic can do.
6. A Malfunctioning Cooling Fan
If the fan is not working properly, air may not flow through the radiator, causing the engine to overheat. Signs of a malfunctioning cooling fan include a fan that does not turn on when the engine is hot or a noisy or vibrating fan. Replacing a malfunctioning cooling fan is typically a job for a professional mechanic.
7. A Blocked or Damaged Radiator Hose
The radiator oversees removing heat from the engine. If a hose becomes blocked or damaged, it can prevent coolant from flowing through the system properly, causing the engine to overheat. Signs of a blocked or damaged radiator hose include leaking coolant, visible damage to the hose, or engine sultry. Replacing a blocked or damaged radiator hose is a relatively simple fix that a professional mechanic can do.
8. A Malfunctioning Temperature Sensor
The temperature sensor sends signals to the engine control module (ECM) to adjust the engine's operating temperature. If the temperature sensor malfunctions, it may send incorrect signals to the ECM, causing the engine to overheat.
Signs of a malfunctioning temperature sensor
• Malfunctioning temperature gauge: A faulty temperature sensor may cause the temperature gauge to read abnormally high or low.
• Check engine light: If the engine control module detects a problem with the temperature sensor, it could trigger the check engine light to come on.
• Engine running hot: A malfunctioning temperature sensor can send incorrect signals to the engine control module, causing the engine to overheat.
• Poor fuel economy: If the temperature sensor sends incorrect signals to the engine control module, the engine may run less efficiently, resulting in reduced fuel economy.
• Rough idling: A faulty temperature sensor can cause the engine to run too hot or cold, leading to rough idling or stalling.
• Failed emissions test: Failure of the emissions test can come from an engine running rich or low due to a broken temperature sensor.
If you notice any of these signs in your vehicle, it is important to have it inspected by a professional mechanic to diagnose the problem and make any necessary repairs.
If you are looking to sell a vehicle that overheats, there are a few steps you can take to make the process easier.
Firstly, being transparent and honest about the issue with potential buyers is important. Detail the symptoms of boiling and any efforts you have made to address the problem.
Secondly, consider getting the car fixed or inspected by a mechanic to reassure potential buyers that the issue is not a serious problem.
Thirdly, price the vehicle appropriately, considering the decreased value of a known issue.
Fourthly, advertise the car widely, including on popular classified websites and social media platforms, with a detailed description of the vehicle's condition and photos. Be open to negotiation and prompt in responding to inquiries to facilitate a smooth sale. With these steps, you can increase your chances of selling your overheating car.
Bottom Line
Once a vehicle starts having issues, it will eventually lead to not working, becoming a junk car. If you have a vehicle that you are ready to get rid of due to overheating issues or simply because it is not worth fixing, you might wonder who buys junk cars near me.
Our company Zeus – Cash For Junk Cars, can help you today! You can get started by calling or texting us at 832-516-3533.
