What are the consequences of engine overheating?

[LaBeckett]

Engine overheating can lead to issues with the cooling system, damage to the cylinder head gasket, and thinning of the engine oil. After the engine cools down, open the radiator cap to check the coolant level in the radiator and the reservoir, and inspect whether the radiator is dirty or has accumulated debris. If the coolant is insufficient, replenish it in both the radiator and the reservoir. If coolant is not available, use water as an emergency measure. Issues with the cooling system: When the engine cooling system overheats, the cooling system pipes may burst, or the heater core may rupture, causing water to enter and damage electrical components in the cabin. Damage to the cylinder head gasket: Overheating can damage the engine's cylinder head gasket. If the gasket is damaged, coolant may enter the combustion chamber and participate in combustion, potentially bending the connecting rod. Thinning of the engine oil: Excessive engine temperature can cause the engine oil to thin, reducing its effectiveness in lubricating internal engine components. This can accelerate wear on the engine bearings, cause scoring on the crankshaft, and lead to sticking between the cylinder walls and pistons. How to handle engine overheating: Safely pull the vehicle off the road and park it in a secure location. Set the transmission to "P" and engage the parking brake. Turn on the hazard warning lights and, if the air conditioning is on, turn it off. If steam is escaping from under the hood, open the hood while keeping the engine running. Check whether the radiator fan is functioning properly. Once the temperature gauge needle drops, turn off the engine.