What are the causes of car engine overheating?
3 Answers
Car engine overheating can be caused by: 1. The fan motor not working or a faulty fan clutch, preventing proper cooling; 2. A blocked or ruptured catalytic converter or pipe, causing exhaust obstruction and leading to engine overheating; 3. A ruptured pipe in the cooling system, resulting in coolant loss and preventing normal heat dissipation; 4. Long-term use of the water pump leading to high wear and tear, causing parts to wear out and detach; 5. Excessive scale deposits on the outer wall of the cylinder liner, preventing the heat generated by the cylinder from being transferred to the coolant. Methods to address car engine overheating include: 1. Repairing the fan motor and fan clutch; 2. Cleaning the scale deposits on the outer wall of the cylinder liner; 3. Adding coolant; 4. Replacing the catalytic converter.
After years of driving, I've found that engine overheating is quite common, with several contributing factors. First is cooling system issues, such as insufficient or leaking coolant, possibly due to aging radiator cracks or loose hoses. Secondly, a faulty water pump failing to circulate fluid leads to heat buildup and accelerated temperature rise. A thermostat stuck in the closed position restricts water flow, slowing heat dissipation. Radiator clogging from scale or dirt accumulation reduces cooling efficiency. Fan malfunctions—especially under high-load conditions like traffic jams or hill climbing—prevent heat dispersion. Additionally, insufficient or degraded engine oil increases friction resistance, generating excess heat. A damaged cylinder head gasket allows combustion gases to leak into cooling passages, causing rapid temperature spikes. Prolonged high-RPM driving or towing heavy loads also heightens overheating risks. Key preventive measures include regularly checking coolant levels and color, and pulling over to inspect when abnormal noises occur or the temperature gauge rises to mid-range.
As an ordinary driver, I have experienced situations where the engine overheating alarm went off while driving. Possible causes include coolant levels being too low or leaking—this is the most common issue, often due to leaks at the radiator connections. The radiator being clogged with dust or leaves can impair heat dissipation. The electric fan not working, especially during city traffic jams when there's no airflow, can cause temperatures to spike. Air bubbles in the cooling system can disrupt smooth operation. A stuck thermostat that fails to open can lead to poor water circulation. Worn-out water pump bearings can prevent proper functioning. Additionally, insufficient or degraded engine oil reduces lubrication, increasing friction and heat in engine components. Last time, my car overheated due to a blown fan fuse. It’s crucial to pull over and turn off the engine immediately to avoid damage. When repairing, it’s best to identify the root cause. Make it a habit to check fluid levels monthly.
