Reasons for Engine Overheating?

[SanMila]

Reasons for engine overheating include insufficient engine coolant; prolonged low-speed, high-load driving during hot seasons; excessively lean or rich air-fuel mixture; severe external dirt or internal scale buildup in the radiator leading to poor heat dissipation; delayed engagement of the fan clutch, non-functioning cooling fan, damaged blades, excessive fan rotation resistance, etc.; excessive carbon deposits in the combustion chamber; issues with the catalytic converter. Dashboard Warning: When the engine temperature is too high, the dashboard will display a warning. It appears as a thermometer-like icon called the coolant temperature warning light. Illumination of this icon indicates insufficient coolant and rising engine temperature. Normal Engine Temperature: The normal operating temperature of a car engine varies by brand and vehicle type. Generally, civilian passenger cars operate between 95-98°C, commercial trucks between 90-95°C, while performance sports cars can reach 105-115°C.

[VanAbel]

Last time I was driving, the temperature gauge suddenly spiked, so I quickly pulled over. There are many possible reasons: low coolant level is the most common—I checked and found the reservoir was almost empty, possibly due to a leak or evaporation. If the water pump fails, the coolant won’t circulate. A stuck thermostat that won’t open can cause the temperature to keep rising. A faulty electric fan or a broken belt reduces cooling efficiency, and radiator clogging due to scale buildup is also common. I also learned not to keep driving when overheating, as it can cause severe engine damage and expensive repairs. At the time, I added water as a temporary fix, but later sought professional repairs. That’s when I realized regular checks of the cooling system can prevent such issues—after all, safety comes first when driving. If this happens, don’t panic: stop immediately, turn off the engine, and inspect the situation to ensure everyone’s safety.

[ElainaLynn]

I understand the causes of overheating, with the core issue being cooling system failure. The most common reason is low coolant level, possibly due to leaks in older vehicles; a non-functioning water pump stops coolant circulation; a stuck thermostat blocks heat dissipation; fan failure such as electrical faults; or a clogged radiator or loose belt. It's like a fever in the body—timely cooling is essential! I've experienced it myself—popping the hood to check fluid levels and replacing fuses when the fan wouldn't turn. For prevention, inspect the cooling system every six months and replace the antifreeze to prevent corrosion. Don't underestimate overheating; even short trips require vigilance to avoid costly repairs. Regular maintenance ensures peace of mind and saves money.

[McCarmen]

High engine temperature is extremely dangerous! I've personally witnessed engines being completely ruined. Causes include coolant leaks or a stuck water pump; thermostat issues; a broken fan; or a clogged radiator preventing heat dissipation. Don't push your luck when overheating—pull over, turn off the engine, and turn on the heater to assist with cooling (counterintuitive but effective). Address the issue promptly to prevent engine seizure and extend your car's lifespan. Safety is no small matter—make it a habit to monitor your dashboard gauges.