Is It a Big Problem If the Engine Gets Very Hot in Hot Weather?
2 Answers
It is not a big problem if the engine gets very hot in hot weather, as this is a normal phenomenon. Below is a detailed introduction: 1. Film-forming ability: In summer, when the engine temperature rises, the temperature of the engine oil also increases. When the temperature is too high, the viscosity of the oil may decrease, leading to a reduction in its film-forming ability. In severe cases, the oil film may rupture, causing increased wear on engine components and affecting the engine's service life. 2. Cooling methods: An effective solution to lower the engine temperature is to install an oil cooler to help dissipate heat from the oil. The structure of an oil cooler is similar to that of a radiator, but it is smaller in size and is usually placed at the side air vent in the front of the car.
During hot summer driving, I find it normal for the engine to feel hot since it generates heat while operating, especially in high-temperature environments. However, the severity depends on whether it's overheating. If the temperature warning light on the dashboard enters the red zone or an alarm light illuminates, it could indicate a serious issue, such as cooling system failure or fan malfunction, which may lead to internal engine damage—like cylinder gasket erosion or piston melting—resulting in costly repairs and travel delays. I recall a long-distance trip where the coolant temperature suddenly spiked, and upon inspection, it turned out the coolant was low. I promptly stopped to refill it, avoiding worse consequences. Regular maintenance should include checking coolant levels, cleaning the radiator, and ensuring the fan operates properly to minimize risks. In hot weather, I reduce vehicle load and avoid prolonged high-speed driving. Always monitor dashboard indicators and stop immediately to cool down if overheating occurs—safety comes first.