What are the causes of engine overheating?
2 Answers
The causes of engine overheating include: 1. Insufficient coolant: Prolonged water circulation during engine operation can gradually deplete the coolant in the engine's cooling system, leading to a shortage in the radiator. If the owner fails to promptly inspect, detect, and replenish the coolant, it can easily result in engine overheating. 2. Radiator leakage: Broken or improperly connected radiator hoses can cause leaks, obstructing water circulation. In severe cases, this may cause the engine to "boil over," emitting white smoke. 3. Cooling fan malfunction: A damaged cooling fan or a short circuit in the wiring can prevent the fan from operating or cause it to rotate slowly, hindering the dissipation of engine heat and naturally raising the engine's temperature. 4. Thermostat failure: The thermostat controls the flow path of the coolant. If it becomes stuck or fails, the engine's circulation—both minor and major—will be affected, preventing the effective dissipation of engine heat.
I've encountered the issue of high engine coolant temperature several times, usually due to several common reasons. For instance, insufficient or leaking coolant is the most prevalent - you might notice the temperature gauge needle soaring on the dashboard. Radiator blockage is another problem, where accumulated dust impairs heat dissipation. Water pump failure prevents coolant circulation, and if the fan isn't working, overheating becomes more likely in hot weather. There's also the thermostat getting stuck and failing to open the coolant passage. I've found that regularly checking coolant levels is crucial - pop the hood monthly to inspect the level, and add some purified water as an emergency measure if it's below the MIN line. If the temperature warning light comes on, don't ignore it; pull over immediately, let the engine cool down, and investigate the cause. Otherwise, you risk blowing a head gasket, which would be costly and time-consuming to repair. Driving habits matter too - avoid flooring the accelerator during long climbs and give the engine more rest periods. Safety first - these small checks can prevent major problems.
