How to Deal with High Engine Temperature at High Altitudes?

[DeJeffrey]

Here are specific solutions for high engine temperature in high-altitude areas: 1. Radiator Issues: When foreign objects invade, they can clog the radiator surface and also attract dust, significantly reducing the radiator's cooling capacity and causing the engine temperature to rise. Generally, adding a layer of mesh protective screen can help to some extent and make cleaning easier later. If the radiator surface is already clogged, pay attention to the cleaning method. To avoid damaging the radiator, some car owners prefer a conservative approach, using only compressed air to blow it clean. However, a water gun can also be used for cleaning. When using a water gun, note two things: first, adjust the spray to disperse the water and reduce pressure; second, spray as perpendicularly to the radiator as possible to avoid high water pressure damaging the radiator fins. 2. Coolant: Coolant should be understood as 'cooling liquid with antifreeze properties.' It has cooling and antifreeze functions. Compared to water, its freezing point is lower, so users in cold northern regions pay more attention to it to prevent the radiator from freezing. Additionally, the boiling point of coolant is higher, generally not less than 105°C. Under standard atmospheric pressure, water boils at 100°C, but at high altitudes, it boils below 100°C. Using water instead of coolant can easily cause the engine to overheat and boil. Another misconception about coolant is only topping it up without replacing it. Some users think that when the coolant level is low, simply adding more is sufficient, but in fact, coolant can expire and lose effectiveness. 3. Thermostat: The thermostat is a valve device between the engine and the radiator. It automatically adjusts the amount of water entering the radiator based on the water temperature, achieving what is commonly referred to as the 'large circulation' and 'small circulation' of the coolant to keep the engine operating within a certain temperature range. Most thermostats on the market are wax-type. If this thermostat fails and the valve cannot open, the coolant cannot enter the large circulation, leading to high engine temperature. Therefore, ensuring the thermostat works properly is an important point in preventing high engine temperature.