Car Overheating: What and Where to Check

Every driver and car owner surely loves his or her car. Some would even take care of their car as if it is their own child. Generally, cars need a regular maintenance check-up as well as habitual cleaning to ensure that it will continue to run smoothly. Moreover, a well-maintained car will also ensure that you will always have a safe travel. Although you might think that your car is one of the most efficient beasts in the road, it is still a machine-if something goes wrong with it, you will surely have a difficult day. A very common problem that car owners normally encounter is car overheating.

This article will tell you why your car tends to run too hot at times. This problem can really ruin a holiday or vacation. It can even make you miss a flight. If you have that car overheating is something that might happen to you in the future, then you are correct. This is why you should be knowledgeable of the typical causes of car overheating so you know what and where to inspect next time you have your car checked.

Radiator
An unclean radiator can cause car overheating. Basically, a vehicle’s radiator is installed with fine metal fins located outside to expand the cooling surface area. Through time, these fins will be clogged with dirt and dust, and even insects. You can clean these fins starting from the opposite direction, the radiator’s backside. Once you see that the fins are already bent, a hacksaw blade can be used to straighten them again.

Thermostat
When the thermostat is stuck, your car is highly likely to overheat. The thermostat can either get stuck or frozen and this can block the flow of coolant through the engine. Before you set off to a long drive, you can check if your thermostat is fine by feeling the upper radiator hose when you start the engine. Upon starting, this hose should feel warm. If it doesn’t, then something might be wrong with your thermostat.

Antifreeze
Some car owners complain of car overheating after the car has been idle for some time. This can be due to the improper antifreeze circulation. Basically, antifreeze helps keep the engine temperature normal and under control during winter to avoid engine freezing. Meanwhile, it is supposed to do the opposite during winter-it must keep the engine from overheating. Thus, it is best if you look under the car at least once a month to see if it leaves stains when parked. Stains and puddles of water is often a sign of antifreeze malfunction.

Air conditioner and faulty water pump
If your car’s water pump is damaged, turning on the car’s AC can actually lead to overheating the water pump is actually a very important part of the car’s cooling system. Basically, it is mainly responsible for the circulation of the coolant around the engine to cool the car from the inside. Thus, it is always necessary to check if your water pump is at its best condition.

Author Bio: Car Dealers Leeds Car Dealership Leeds Second Hand cars Leeds

Category: Automotive
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