6 Causes of Car Engine Overheating and How to Overcome It

When a car experiences overheating, it can be quite a frightening experience for its owner. Overheating can be a sign of serious issues in the cooling system (car AC not cold) or problems with other engine components, such as bubbling sounds in the reservoir, leading to increased engine temperature. In this article, we will discuss the definition of overheating in cars, its common causes, signs, and effective solutions to address and prevent overheating conditions in vehicles.

What is Overheating?

Overheating in a car is a condition where the vehicle's engine temperature rises significantly above its normal limits. Car engines are designed to operate at optimal temperatures, and when the temperature rises too high, it can cause serious problems for the engine.

Although many drivers are aware of the signs of a car overheating, not all drivers understand the causes of overheating and how to address the condition. 

Causes of Engine Overheating

What are the signs of an overheating car? Here are 6 factors that can cause a car to overheat (excessive heat), including:

1. Damaged Radiator Fan

The main cause of engine overheating is damage to the engine cooling system, particularly due to a faulty radiator fan. This component is often problematic and prone to failure. Its malfunction affects the engine's cooling, leading to overheating.

2. Damaged Radiator Cap

Another cause of engine overheating is damage to the radiator cap. This can be due to improper installation or other issues preventing the cap from sealing properly. This results in coolant leaking and causes the engine temperature to rise.

Read Also: Know How to Maintain Your Radiator to Prevent Overheating!

3. Radiator Leak

In addition to damage to the fan and radiator cap, engine overheating can also be caused by a radiator leak. Damage to the radiator is usually caused by high levels of oxygen and water inside the radiator, leading to corrosion.

This can result in the radiator metal leaking, causing coolant to be wasted and unable to cool the engine effectively.

4. Faulty Thermostat

A faulty car thermostat or temperature gauge can also obstruct the coolant flow in the radiator. If this condition occurs, the engine temperature will be difficult to lower, leading to overheating.

5. Use of Fake or Poor Quality Oil

Using fake oil in a car can cause the engine temperature to rise excessively. This is because the oil cannot lubricate the engine parts properly, resulting in significant friction. This can cause the hood of the car to emit thick smoke.

6. Incorrect Fuel Type

Using the wrong fuel type, such as low octane fuel, can cause the engine to knock, leading to increased fuel consumption and overheating.

How to Address Engine Overheating

What should you do when your car overheats? Here are some steps you can take to address an overheating engine, including:

1. Turn Off the Engine

The first step to fix an overheating car is to turn off the engine. Immediately turn off the engine when the car shows signs of overheating. This is done to allow the car's temperature to drop and prevent worsening the overheating condition.

2. Open the Hood

Opening the car hood is a good step to reduce the trapped heat in the engine and radiator.

3. Avoid Opening the Radiator Cap

Most people think that a tightly sealed radiator cap can cause the car to overheat. This is not 100% true.

Because if you open the radiator cap while the car is overheating, it can be dangerous. Hot fluid from the radiator can splash onto your skin, causing serious burns.

4. Check the Radiator Water Level

An overheating engine can be caused by low or depleted radiator water. You can refill the empty radiator with the spare radiator water you have prepared.

5. Use Fuel as Recommended by the Manufacturer

Using high-octane fuel or fuel as recommended by the car manufacturer can reduce the likelihood of overheating.

6. Use Original and Quality Oil

Using original oil ensures its quality. The car engine receives the right lubrication while operating.

7. Regular and Periodic Car Servicing

The best way to address the causes of car overheating is to have regular and periodic servicing at an official workshop or Daihatsu dealer. This is to check the condition of the radiator, thermostat, and other components for any damage so that they can be addressed promptly with the right treatment. 

What Are the Signs of an Overheating Car?

You can recognize the signs of an overheating car by paying attention to the following:

1. The Multi-Information Display indicator shows an increasing temperature.
2. Strange odors in the cabin.
3. Leaking radiator components, such as car AC not cold or even leaking, for example.
4. Significant drop in engine performance.
5. Smoke coming from the hood.

How long does it take to cool an overheating engine?

To cool down an overheating car engine, it is recommended to allow 30 to 60 minutes. After that, it is advisable to open the hood to prevent heat from being trapped in the engine compartment.

Can an overheating car still drive?

If the car engine is overheating, it is best not to force it to drive. This condition can cause serious damage to the engine, which, if left unattended, can have fatal consequences.

How much does it cost to fix an overheating car?

The cost to fix overheating issues using machining methods ranges from Rp300,000 to Rp700,000. However, it is important to note that the cost of repairing overheating can increase significantly if several engine components need to be replaced. Components that initially have relatively affordable costs can reach between Rp5,000,000 to Rp20,000,000.

Thus,