Why Is My Car Overheating?
Why Is My Car Overheating?
There are many issues that may arise during vehicle ownership; one that no one looks forward to is an engine that is overheating. There are many reasons why your vehicle may overheat; however, the most likely cause is a leak in the vehicle's cooling system or a malfunctioning radiator. As a result, your vehicle will not be able to maintain its normal operating temperature range of 195 to 200 degrees.
If you suspect a coolant leak or faulty radiator, please stop driving your vehicle and contact our service centre for assistance. At MINI Edmonton, our trained technicians are ready to diagnose and repair any issue you have with your MINI. Continue reading to learn more about what causes overheating.
What Causes a Vehicle to Overheat?
There are a handful of reasons why a vehicle will overheat; the telltale sign is steam or smoke seeping out from under your hood. However, before that happens, you should be able to recognize the issues that cause overheating.
- A leaking cooling system will reveal itself by a formation of puddles or stains in your driveway. The cooling system is a close looped operation that includes the radiator, hoses, water pump, head gasket, and thermostat.
- If any of your coolant hoses are blocked or partially blocked, it can also cause overheating.
- Typically coolant is mixed with water depending on the season. A MINI requires a 50/50 water to coolant ratio. If this balance is off, it may cause overheating.
- If your radiator stops working as it should, for example, there is a leak or blockage, it will not be able to circulate coolant efficiently.
- Water pumps also have a maintenance schedule, their lifespan has definitely gotten better over the years, but if a water pump is not functioning correctly, it will cause overheating.
What to Do When a Car Overheats
If you notice that your vehicle is overheating, make sure to stop driving and do not open your hood. Let it cool off, and if you need to drive it a short distance to get help.
Contact Us
If you want to find out more about your vehicle and the effects of overheating. Please contact us, and our trained service professionals will be more than happy to help.