Is It Normal for a New Car's Engine to Be Hot to the Touch?
3 Answers
It is normal for a new car's engine to be hot to the touch. Here are the details: 1. Normal Situation: Whether it's a new or old car, the engine will become very hot when running. It is not recommended to test the temperature by hand. High temperatures are normal for a machine operating at high speeds, as there are air-cooling and water-cooling systems to regulate the engine temperature, so there's no need to worry. 2. Coolant Temperature: The internal working temperature of the engine can reach several hundred degrees Celsius. As long as the car's coolant temperature gauge stays around 90 degrees, it is considered normal. 3. Normal Water Temperature: The engine naturally generates high heat during operation. As long as the water temperature is normal, the engine temperature is within the standard range.
It's actually quite common for a newly purchased car to have a high engine temperature. I experienced a similar situation when I picked up my car last year. As long as the temperature gauge is within the normal range, it's normal for the hood to feel hot after driving. The engine generates high temperatures due to gasoline combustion during operation, and turbocharged models can even reach 600 degrees Celsius, so the design of the engine compartment's cooling system is particularly crucial. However, be cautious if you notice a burning smell, abnormal coolant consumption, or a red warning light on the dashboard—these are signs that you should immediately visit a 4S shop to check cooling system components like the water pump and thermostat. During the break-in period of a new car, it's advisable to avoid prolonged aggressive driving. Once, I was stuck in traffic for half an hour and could feel the heat radiating from the hood.
Last time when I accompanied my best friend to pick up her car, she asked the same question. Actually, the normal operating temperature of an engine should be around 90-100°C. The cooling system of a new car hasn't fully broken in yet, so it's normal for the cooling fan to keep running for a few minutes after short trips. But remember, never wash the car immediately after turning off the engine - the drastic temperature change can damage the engine. One detail to note: The turbocharger housing feels hotter than a naturally aspirated engine, which is a design characteristic, not a malfunction. However, if you notice oil stains on the ground or white smoke after parking, then it's definitely time for a check-up.
