What Causes a Car to Overheat?

If your vehicle is overheating in Loveland, there are several reasons a car would overheat. If you notice that your vehicle is exhibiting overheating issues, like a leaking cooling system or your radiator is causing trouble, do not drive your car. Driving an overheating car can put you and yourself into danger. Learn more about what causes a car to overheat and what to do with this service guide from Beechmont Toyota.Then, be sure to take advantage of our Toyota service specials for your next oil change or tire rotation!

What Causes a Car to Overheat?

So, what causes a car to overheat? And what does it mean when your car overheats? Every vehicle has a normal temperature range, between 195 and 200 degrees. Anything above that is problematic for your vehicle in Mason. An overheating car is a serious problem and needs to be addressed immediately. Reasons a car would overheat include:

• Leaking cooling system
• Coolant hose blockage
• Improper coolant mixture
• Radiator issues
• Broken water pump

What to Do When A Car Overheats

Even though an overheating car is a serious issue, knowing what to do when a car overheats can save you major repairs down the road. Paying attention to leaking fluids from your car is another way to ensure your car doesn’t overheat. If this should ever happen in West Chester, follow these steps:

• If the air conditioning is running, turn it off and turn on the heat to full. This will help remove heat from the engine block.
• Pull over and turn off your car as soon as possible. Wait at least 30 minutes to open the hood to avoid burning yourself.
• Call for roadside assistance to tow your car to the nearest service center.

What NOT to Do When Your Car Overheats

As important as knowing what to do when a car overheats, it is equally important to know what NOT to do:

• Panicking doesn’t help. Stay calm and pull over.
• Driving your car when it’s overheating is not smart and can lead to long-term damage. Call a tow service.
• Opening your hood immediately will lead to burns! Wait at least 30 minutes.
• Removing the radiator cap is also ill-advised. This can stay hot longer than your car hood.
• Driving after it’s cooled and hoping it gets better. An overheating car always needs to be serviced.
• Diagnosing and fixing the issue. Unless you’re a mechanic, trust a professional.

Schedule a Service Appointment at Beechmont Toyota

Learn more about what it means when your car overheats and what to do with the service team at Beechmont Toyota. Contact us in Cincinnati with any questions! If your car is overheating, schedule an appointment with the service center!