A vehicle's cooling system plays an important role in preventing engine overheating. It might show some of the signs of coolant leaks, steaming hood, low engine oil, or a temperature gauge. When it malfunctions, it might lead to future costly repairs and potential engine damage. Understanding the causes and implementing prevention measures can save time & money and won't create stress.
Drive your car to the BCS Workshop our professional will tell you if there are any persistent causing the car to overheat.
In this blog, we discuss common reasons for overheating and provide tips on keeping your cooling system in optimal condition.
1. Low coolant levels
The coolant, also known as antifreeze, circulates through the cooling system to absorb and dissipate heat. Low coolant levels are one of the most common reasons for engine overheating.
Cause: Leaks in the radiator, hoses, or water pump or neglecting to top up the coolant.
Prevention tips:
- Regularly check and maintain proper coolant levels.
- Inspect the radiator and hoses for visible leaks.
- Use the coolant type recommended by the vehicle manufacturer’s manual.
2. Faulty thermostat
A thermostat controls the coolant flow between the engine and the radiator. A bad thermostat may become stuck in either open or closed position. It results in overheating.
Causes: Worn-out or aging thermostat component
Preventive tips:
- Replace the thermostat with a routine vehicle check.
- Look out for unusual fluctuations in the temperature gauge
3. Radiator blockage or damage
A blocked or damaged radiator will impede its ability to absorb heat from the engine and transfer it to the atmosphere.
Cause: The debris, dirt, or corrosion that is accumulated in the radiator.
Prevention tips:
- Flush the radiator frequently to clean out dirt and sediment.
- Check the radiator for signs of physical damage or corrosion.
4. Water pump failure
The water pump makes sure coolant flows throughout the system. If there is an issue like the pump fails, the coolant will not get to the engine, causing overheating.
Cause: Worn bearings, impeller damage, or a leaking pump.
Prevention tips:
- Replace the water pump as recommended by the manufacturer.
- Observe and listen for strange noises, such as grinding or whining that may be signs of pump failure.
5. Broken or Leaking Hoses
Hoses carry coolant between various parts of the cooling system. Over time, they will crack, leak, or become loose.
Cause: Old rubber, improper fit, or extreme temperatures
Prevention tips:
- Examine hoses regularly for cracking, swelling, or leakage.
- Replace worn-out hoses immediately.
6. Malfunctioning cooling fans
Cooling fans assist in pulling in air through the radiator to lower coolant temperatures. Failure of the fans may render the cooling system ineffective, particularly at low speeds.
Causes: Electrical problems, motor breakdown, or bent fan blades.
Prevention tips:
- Inspect the fan motor and wiring as part of your car air conditioning service.
- Test the fans at engine running condition to confirm they are operating correctly.
7. Obstruction to airflow into the radiator
The radiator needs adequate airflow in order to function. Such blockages could prevent a system from dissipation through heat.
Causes: Accumulation of debris, dirt or insects blocking the airflow for the radiator
Prevention tips
- The radiator and the front grill must be clean
- Removing any debris when inspecting.
How to prevent cooling system overheating
To avoid overheating and maintain your vehicle's performance, you need regular inspection by a trusted service provider. Look for a Car AC service near you to find reliable mechanics. Check and test every air conditioning service's radiator, thermostat, and hose. Leaks should be addressed as soon as possible because they lead to low coolant levels that can eventually cause overheating. Monitor warning signs through dashboard indicators or temperature gauge spikes. These are initial signs of a problem.
What to Do if Your Coolant Boils
How can coolant boiling be prevented? This problem usually arises when the cooling system is exposed to too much heat and pressure.
Preventive tips:
- Pull over safely and turn off the engine.
- Give some time for the engine to cool down completely before checking the coolant level.
- Try not to open the radiator cap when the engine is hot to avoid getting burned.
- Use the correct type of coolant to raise the boiling point of the liquid.
- Replace the radiator cap if it fails to maintain system pressure.
Take Away
If your cooling system continues to overheat despite preventive efforts, contacting a mechanic is essential. Reach out to our experienced team at BCS Workshop for a Peugeot mechanic near you, so to ensure accurate diagnosis and repairs.
With proper addressing of cooling system problems and by following these measures, you can ensure the smooth running of your vehicle with minimal chances of expensive repair. A well-maintained cooling system protects the engine while also enhancing the performance of the vehicle.
Digiwhiz