What are the main reasons for high engine temperature in cars?

[JulietteLee]

The main reasons for high engine temperature in cars are: 1. The fan motor is not working or the fan clutch is faulty; 2. The three-way catalytic converter is blocked or the pipe is broken; 3. The pipes in the cooling system are broken; 4. The water pump, which has been used for a long time, has worn out parts after severe wear; 5. The pressure of the radiator cap is unstable, causing the spring to loosen and the cap opening cannot be tightly closed. The solutions for high engine temperature in cars are: 1. Open the radiator cap, start the engine, and observe whether there is a rolling phenomenon in the water in the radiator; 2. Remove the thermostat and check it; 3. Check whether the surface of the radiator is blocked; 4. Check the fan belt to see if the tightness is normal.

[Cory]

I found that most cases of high engine temperature in cars are caused by cooling system issues. Insufficient or leaking coolant can lead to inadequate engine cooling, causing the temperature to rise rapidly. If the water pump fails and stops working, the coolant won't circulate, and heat can't be dissipated. When the radiator's exterior is clogged by insects or leaves, or its interior accumulates scale, its efficiency is greatly reduced. If the fan stops working, especially in traffic jams, heat cannot be effectively expelled. Poor-quality or insufficient engine oil increases friction, creating more heat-related risks. A stuck thermostat in the closed position prevents coolant flow, directly causing overheating. A damaged cylinder head gasket is even more serious, as combustion gases can mix into the cooling system, increasing pressure. Excessive load, such as towing heavy objects or driving at high speeds, can also increase the burden. I recommend regularly checking the coolant level and color, keeping the radiator clean, changing the engine oil on time, and immediately stopping to inspect the engine if a high-temperature warning appears to prevent damage. This can save a lot on repair costs!

[GriffinRose]

Once during a long drive, my engine suddenly triggered a high-temperature warning, which really startled me. Possible causes could be a cooling system failure, such as aged coolant leaking—I've experienced a ruptured hose before that wasn't fixed in time. A short circuit in the fan motor might cause it to jam and fail to start when needed. Excessive oil consumption leading to insufficient lubrication can accelerate engine wear and overheating. A radiator clogged with mud is a common issue, especially after driving in heavy rain. A faulty thermostat can prevent proper fluid flow regulation. In short, overheating isn't caused by just one issue; you need to assess based on dashboard readings and unusual sounds. I've now developed a habit of checking coolant levels weekly, keeping the front grille clean to avoid dirt buildup, and inspecting the system seasonally to ensure smooth driving. Remember, never push through overheating—pulling over to let the engine cool is basic safety practice.

[JustinAnn]

Over the years of car enthusiasm, I've figured the main causes of engine overheating boil down to inadequate cooling. Coolant leaks or evaporation reduce heat dissipation; a worn-out water pump fails circulation; radiator clogs internally/externally degrade efficiency; faulty fans can't disperse heat. Poor oil quality with insufficient lubrication accelerates heating; heavy loads like hill climbing strain the engine. Improperly matched aftermarket cooling mods increase overheating risks. Regularly clean radiator fins, use synthetic oil, and monitor temps to prevent engine damage. Prolonged overheating warps cylinder heads – never underestimate its performance impact!