Is your car overheating? Here’s what to do and how to fix it.
If you’ve ever experienced your car overheating, you know it can be a nerve-racking situation. Steam billowing from under the hood, the temperature gauge spiking into the red zone, and that sinking feeling that your engine might be in serious trouble. But don’t panic! With the right knowledge and quick action, you can handle an overheating car and get back on the road safely. Let’s dive into what causes overheating, what to do when it happens, and how to prevent it in the future.
Symptoms and causes of an overheating engine
First, let’s cover the telltale signs that your car is running too hot:
- Temperature gauge reading higher than normal or in the red
- Steam or smoke coming from under the hood
- Strange smells like burning oil or sweet coolant
- Reduced engine power or AC performance
So what’s behind the heat? Common causes of engine overheating include:
- Low coolant levels due to leaks or improper mixture
- Malfunctioning thermostat not regulating coolant flow
- A damaged radiator or clogged hoses restricting cooling
- A broken water pump not circulating coolant effectively
- Overworked engine from towing, steep climbs, or high speeds
What to do if your car starts overheating
If you notice any of the above symptoms while driving, take these steps immediately:
- Pull over and turn off the engine. Find a safe place to stop and shut off the car to prevent further damage. Keep the hood closed until the engine cools.
- Let the engine cool for at least 15-30 minutes. Wait until the temperature gauge drops back to normal before opening the hood. Never remove the radiator cap when the engine is hot!
- Check coolant levels and add if low. Once cooled, check the overflow tank and add a 50/50 mix of coolant and water if needed. Look for obvious leaks or damage.
- Restart the engine and monitor the temperature. If the issue seems resolved, carefully drive to the nearest auto shop for a full inspection. Pull over again if overheating recurs.
- Call for a tow if necessary. If the car won’t restart or continues to overheat, play it safe and have it towed to a trusted mechanic.
Repairing an overheated engine
Depending on the root cause and severity of the overheating, repairs can range from simple to complex. A mechanic will typically:
- Pressure test the cooling system for leaks
- Replace the thermostat, water pump, or radiator if faulty
- Flush and refill the coolant to the proper mixture
- Inspect belts, hoses, and fans for wear or damage
- Check the oil for signs of overheating damage
The cost of overheating repairs in New Zealand
So what’s the damage to your wallet? Here are some rough estimates for common services:
- Coolant flush and refill: $100-200
- Thermostat replacement: $200-400
- Water pump replacement: $400-800
- Radiator replacement: $500-1500
Keep in mind that catching overheating issues early can save you from more expensive repairs like a blown head gasket ($1500+) or even a complete engine replacement ($3000+).
Trust My Auto Shop for expert overheating repairs
When it comes to fixing an overheated engine, don’t take chances with just any mechanic. Bring your car to the experts at My Auto Shop. Our mobile mechanics will come to you, diagnose the problem quickly, and provide upfront pricing for repairs. We prioritize customer service and have a strong track record of happy clients.
Don’t let an overheating engine leave you stranded. Book an appointment with My Auto Shop today and get back to driving with confidence!