What Happens When a Car Engine Overheats?
3 Answers
Engine overheating can lead to a decrease in engine power, further reducing the engine's air charging coefficient, which results in a reduced amount of fresh air-fuel mixture entering the cylinders and a lower average effective pressure in the cylinders. It can also cause damage to the engine's cylinder head gasket. If the cylinder head gasket is damaged, coolant may enter the combustion chamber and participate in combustion, with a certain probability of bending the connecting rod. Causes of engine overheating include: 1. A malfunctioning cooling system fan leading to high engine temperature. 2. A stuck thermostat in the engine cooling system causing high engine temperature. 3. A damaged water pump in the engine cooling system resulting in high engine temperature. 4. Excessive dirt on the radiator surface of the engine cooling system leading to poor heat dissipation and high engine temperature.
When your car's engine overheats, the consequences are no small matter. Once I encountered this issue on the highway—the temperature gauge shot up, the car instantly lost power, and I nearly broke down. Excessive heat can warp engine components, like melting pistons or cracking cylinder heads, sending repair costs soaring by thousands. Severe overheating can also cause engine oil to fail, increasing friction and wear, potentially leading to catastrophic failures like a blown engine. That time, I immediately pulled over, called a tow truck, and took it to the dealership, where they found a coolant leak. My advice: if you see the temperature warning light on your dashboard, stop and turn off the engine immediately to check—don't push it, or repair costs will skyrocket. Long-term, regular maintenance of the cooling system is crucial.
As a seasoned mechanic with years of experience, I've witnessed countless issues caused by engine overheating. High temperatures cause metal components to expand and deform, particularly the cylinder block and head, potentially leading to permanent damage that requires major repairs or replacement. Cooling system failures are the most common culprits, such as water pump failure or fan malfunction, preventing heat dissipation. The viscosity of lubricating oil decreases, reducing its protective properties and accelerating bearing wear, which can ultimately lead to complete engine failure. If you smell burning or see steam escaping, it's crucial to stop and inspect immediately. For routine maintenance, checking coolant levels and belt condition monthly can prevent most incidents. Cost-wise, minor repairs may run a few hundred yuan, while major overhauls could cost several thousand.
