Can the car still be driven if the water temperature exceeds 90 degrees?
3 Answers
Car water temperature should normally operate between 70 and 85 degrees. Exceeding 90 degrees means it is in a dangerous state and should not be driven. Otherwise, excessively high temperatures can easily cause the engine to overheat, leading to the cylinder head gasket bursting, and in severe cases, deformation of the cylinder head and block. Below are specific details about car water temperature: Main function: Car water temperature reflects the working condition of the cooling system. The engine must operate within a reasonable high-temperature range for optimal performance. At suitable temperatures, fuel can burn more efficiently and reduce emissions. Causes of overheating: The main reasons for engine overheating include insufficient coolant, malfunctioning cooling fan, faulty water pump, thermostat failure, and poor radiator performance. Symptoms of overheating: When the car's water temperature is too high, the dashboard may display a high-temperature or engine overheating warning. The engine cooling fan may rotate at high speed with loud noise. Engine knocking may occur, and in severe cases, it can lead to engine seizure, rendering the engine unable to start.
I've been driving for over a decade, and you really can't push through when the engine temperature exceeds 90 degrees. Last week, my car's temperature gauge shot up to 95 degrees, so I immediately pulled over to check. Normal operating temperature for most cars is around 80 degrees. If it goes over 90, it means there's a problem with the cooling system—maybe the water pump isn't working properly, the thermostat is stuck, or there's a coolant leak. If you keep driving, the engine can overheat to the point of warping. At best, you might burst a hose and see white smoke; at worst, you could seize the engine, requiring major repairs that could cost thousands. I turned off the engine right away and waited for help. Don't believe those who say you can tough it out to the repair shop—saving on towing fees isn't worth the repair costs.
As someone who frequently tinkers with cars, I recommend stopping the vehicle immediately when the temperature gauge hits the red line at 90 degrees. Engines under high temperatures can cause uneven metal expansion – have you seen what happens when you pour water on red-hot iron? Over time, this can warp piston rings and cylinder walls, with repair costs potentially exceeding the price of a new set of tires. Common causes include fan failure, clogged radiators, or expired/ineffective coolant. If this happens on the road, first turn off the AC to reduce engine load, then monitor if the temperature drops. If not, call for a tow truck immediately. Remember to check coolant levels every three months, especially for older vehicles.
