Is It Normal for the Engine to Be Hot to the Touch in Summer?
3 Answers
It is quite normal for the engine to be very hot in summer. Engine Introduction: An engine is a machine that converts other forms of energy into mechanical energy. It can refer to either the power-generating device or the entire machine including the power unit. Engine Water Temperature: The optimal water temperature for a car while driving is around 90 degrees. If the temperature warning light on the dashboard comes on, it is advisable not to continue driving. You should stop and check the car's cooling system. If the issue is minor, wait for the temperature to drop before driving to a service station for inspection and repair. When cooling down, never pour cold water on the engine, as this may cause the engine block to crack due to sudden cooling.
As an experienced driver with over a decade behind the wheel, I think it's quite normal for the engine to feel hot to the touch in summer. Every time I pull over after a long drive, the hood feels warm or even slightly burning hot, especially under the scorching summer sun when temperatures are higher. This happens because the engine's operating temperature is around 90 degrees Celsius normally, and the heat generated during operation combined with ambient heat naturally makes it feel hot. As long as the car's coolant temperature gauge shows normal readings and the cooling fan kicks in automatically, there's no major concern. However, be alert if it gets abnormally hot - like causing instant blisters upon touch or emitting a burning smell, which might indicate cooling system issues. I always make sure to regularly check coolant levels and clean the radiator before summer to prevent clogging, thus avoiding engine damage from overheating.
From my experience with cars, I know that engines are designed to operate at high temperatures. In summer, it's standard for the engine to feel hot to the touch, especially after parking when the fan is still running, making the temperature more noticeable. The key is to monitor the coolant temperature gauge—if the needle stays steadily in the middle green zone, everything is fine. However, be alert for signs of overheating, such as coolant leaks or a non-functioning fan, in which case you should stop and inspect immediately. During summer, I recommend paying extra attention to maintenance, regularly cleaning the cooling system, and taking time to observe coolant temperature changes—don’t wait until a small issue becomes a big problem to fix it.
