Why is my Car Overheating?

Most cars operate between 195 and 200 degrees Fahrenheit, so when you notice your car running hot, it can be cause for concern. Why is my car overheating? It could be anything from a simple leak in your cooling system to a major engine malfunction, so it’s important to get the problem assessed immediately. In fact, we recommend turning off the engine and calling a towing service to get your car to the service center. Driving an overheated car can cause issues to the car itself, but it can also put the driver at danger. Let’s take a look at some of the most common car overheating causes.

What are Common Car Overheating Causes?

When your car is running hot, it’s likely some sort of issue with the cooling system. Here are some of the most common car overheating causes we encounter.

• There’s a leak in the cooling system – A leak in the cooling system is probably the most common cause of a car running hot. The radiator, hoses, water pump, head gasket, and thermostat housing can all develop leaks with time.
• There’s a problem with your coolant – Your coolant needs to be mixed with water in a specific ratio in order to function properly. The wrong type of coolant or the wrong mix of coolant can both cause problems on the Asbury Park road.
• There’s a blockage in the coolant hose – The coolant hose itself can become blocked from dirt and debris, which will prevent the coolant from flowing throughout the vehicle.
• There’s an issue with the radiator – From blockages to leaks, radiator issues are a common reason a car would overheat.
• Your car’s water pump is broken – If you have a leak or a shifted pump shaft, the coolant will fail to flow and this can cause major heating problems.

What Should I Do When My Car is Overheating?

If you notice your car is burning up in your Red Bank garage, just turn the car off and schedule a tow to the service center. But if you’re already on the road in Freehold when your car starts overheating, follow these steps:

• Turn off the air conditioning if it’s on and blast the heat. This pulls heat from the engine.
• Pull over when it’s safe to do so. Do not touch the hood of your car for at least 30 minutes to prevent burns.
• Call a towing service and get your car fixed immediately.

Find Quality Service at Acura of Ocean

Whether you notice your car running hot or you’re just in the market for routine maintenance, head to Acura of Ocean for all of your automotive needs in the Ocean area. Contact us with questions or schedule your service online!