What are the reasons for excessively high car coolant temperature?
2 Answers
The reasons for excessively high car coolant temperature are as follows: 1. Air in the cooling system: The presence of air in the cooling system can cause airlocks, leading to poor circulation. 2. Poor heat dissipation: Debris attached to the radiator surface can obstruct normal airflow, resulting in inadequate heat dissipation. 3. Fan malfunction: Slipping or broken fan belts can cause the silicone oil fan clutch to malfunction, which will also lead to excessively high coolant temperature. Here are some precautions: 1. Monitor fluid level: Ensure the coolant level is normal. 2. Pay attention to water temperature readings while driving: Always keep an eye on the water temperature gauge readings while driving, ensuring they do not exceed 95°C. In special circumstances, to enhance convective cooling, you can lift the engine hood to facilitate ventilation and heat dissipation.
After running an auto repair shop for so many years, I've encountered countless cases of overheating coolant. The most common issue is insufficient coolant—either due to leaks or not topping it up regularly—which tends to cause problems in hot weather. If the water pump fails, it stops circulating the coolant, and the engine overheats badly. I've seen cases where the pump impeller wore out and got stuck. Radiator blockage is also frequent; dust or rust clogs the vents, drastically reducing cooling efficiency. A faulty thermostat is even more troublesome—if it gets stuck in the closed position, the coolant stops flowing, and the temperature skyrockets. A non-functioning fan is a major headache too, whether from a bad motor or electrical issues, causing the engine to smoke when idling at intersections. I recommend regularly checking coolant levels and glancing at the temperature gauge before starting the car. If a warning light comes on, pull over immediately to let the engine cool. Otherwise, engine damage could cost way more than a few hundred bucks to fix. It's best to schedule regular maintenance at a professional shop.