What are the reasons for excessively high car coolant temperature?
4 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.
Last time I took my new car out for a drive, the coolant temperature suddenly skyrocketed, which really scared me! After checking, I found the coolant level was too low, probably due to a minor leak I hadn't noticed. The fan wasn't working properly either—maybe the motor was broken or the sensor was giving false readings, making it inconvenient to stop on the highway. The radiator was also heavily clogged with dirt, but cleaning out the dust helped. I also suspected the thermostat was acting up; if it gets stuck, it can block the flow, so I had to replace it. Overloading the engine, like running the AC while climbing hills, can make overheating worse. I remember stopping in time to add water, then letting it cool down before driving slowly to the repair shop, which saved me from a major disaster. Now, I check the coolant and belts every month—safety first, don’t wait until you break down to regret it.
Having driven for decades, coolant overheating is a recurring issue. Common causes include insufficient coolant, requiring frequent top-ups; a clogged or leaking radiator, which improves after cleaning; a malfunctioning water pump leading to stagnant fluid circulation; a faulty thermostat stuck in the closed position; or fan failure, which can be disastrous if caused by a short circuit. Additionally, engine overuse, such as towing heavy loads or driving in high temperatures, can impose excessive strain. I recommend regular maintenance to avoid the risk of breakdowns.
