Why Is My Car Overheating and What Should I Do?

Maybe you’re stuck at home with an overheated engine, unable to leave your driveway, and asking “Why is my car overheating?” Or, maybe your car is working just fine, but you’re wondering what to do when a car overheats, just in case it ever happens to you in High Point. In any case, our service center is here to help you learn more. 

There are numerous reasons a car would overheat, which we’ll cover below. First, though, it’s worth noting that every vehicle has a unique standard operating temperature, usually between 195–200 degrees Fahrenheit. If your temperature gauge is rapidly rising, the safest thing you can do is not drive your car. Schedule a service visit right away, then read on to learn more about what causes a car to overheat.

Common Reasons a Car Would Overheat

What does it mean when your car overheats? For starters, it’s a clear sign that there’s a larger issue that needs to be addressed before you can safely get back on the road in Winston Salem. What causes a car to overheat? Take a look at some common underlying issues:

• Cooling System Leak: This is one of the most common causes of overheating that we see in our service department. The radiator, water pump, hoses, thermostat housing, and head gasket all have the potential to spring a leak. 
• Incorrect Coolant Ratio: Your car requires a coolant-to-water ratio of 50:50. If someone puts the wrong coolant in your car or the ratio is off, the engine is liable to overheat.
• Coolant Hose Backup: Over time, dirt and debris can enter your cooling system and form a blockage in the coolant hose. If the coolant can’t get through the blockage, you may be faced with an overheated engine.
• Radiator Problems: The radiator is another common source of overheating. You could be dealing with a blockage, a leak, or damage to the radiator fan.
• Damaged Water Pump: If the water pump has a leak or an off-kilter pump shaft, it can’t send coolant throughout the cooling system. As you probably guessed, this can lead to overheating.

What to Do When a Car Overheats On the Road? 

If your car overheats before you leave home, then the solution is simple. Don’t drive it, and get it into a service center as soon as possible. 

But, what if you’re out in Kernersville and you see steam under the hood, or the engine temperature gauge is rising? As soon as you can safely do so, pull your car off the road. Turn the heat up to full blast to help take heat away from the engine. Call a towing service to bring your vehicle to the nearest service center for an inspection. In the meantime, if you want to check under the hood, make sure you wait at least 30 minutes so you don’t get burned.

Trust the Terry Labonte Chevrolet Service Center with Your Engine

Need engine service in Greensboro? Count on the service department at Terry Labonte Chevrolet! We provide ongoing service offers and service financing options to help with unexpected service costs. With any additional questions or concerns, contact us at your convenience to start a conversation!