An overheating car or engine may seem contradictory in the winter. However, it can happen to you at any time, at any point in the year. Engines produce a lot of heat, no matter what conditions it runs in. Vehicles have cooling systems to maintain their internal temperature at acceptable levels. So if your vehicle overheats this winter, it is most likely a fault in the cooling system.
What Can Cause Your Car to Overheat?
Here are three of the most common culprits for overheating engines:
- Low Antifreeze/Coolant - A lack of coolant fluid can cause your engine to get hotter than the norm. That is why we ask our customers to frequently inspect their coolant levels this season. If the levels are dipping low, don’t hesitate to top it off. We invite you to our shop if you need help checking for leaks.
- Broken Thermostat - The thermostat is responsible for monitoring engine temperatures and facilitating when coolant should enter the engine. If this component is faulty, it can prevent your engine from cooling down.
- Radiator - The radiator is a metal component in the cooling system that is subject to collect dust, dirt, and other contaminants over time. A common problem with the radiator is clogs, which can cause engine overheating. It is essential to clear the radiator out after many miles of driving.
How to Prevent Overheating This Winter
The best way to prevent your car from overheating this winter is with maintenance and routine inspections. A cooling system inspection can make a world of difference and save you from major breakdowns and repairs down the line. We can even take it a step further and perform a coolant flush. This fluid service ensures the system is clean and filled with antifreeze/coolant.
If you are interested in a cooling system inspection or repair, please do not hesitate to call or visit the local experts at Neighborhood Tire Pros.