Pay Attention to These Things That Cause the Car Engine to Overheat

Jakarta, July 2025, While driving the car, the car's temperature gauge rises higher. Clearly, this is an undesirable condition for Daihatsu friends. Not only is the temperature high, but Daihatsu friends also see smoke coming from under the hood of the car. 

This causes the car engine to overheat. However, there is no need to panic. At least, Daihatsu friends understand a few things causing the engine to overheat (overheat). 

Why does the car engine overheat?

One of the main reasons for overheating is that the coolant level is too low. Coolant, also known as antifreeze, helps keep the car engine at the right temperature. If there is not enough coolant, the engine can become too hot. This happens if there is a leak in the radiator, hoses, or elsewhere in the cooling system. 

Another common cause is a damaged radiator. The radiator's job is to dissipate heat from the coolant. If the radiator is clogged, damaged, or leaking, it cannot function properly, and the engine overheats.

Pay Attention to These Components

A faulty thermostat can also cause excessive heat. The thermostat controls the flow of coolant through the engine. If it gets stuck, the coolant cannot circulate, and the engine will become too hot. 

The water pump is another important part of the cooling system. The water pump circulates coolant through the engine. If the water pump is damaged, the coolant will not move, and the engine can overheat. Signs of a faulty water pump include coolant leaks and strange noises from the pump area.

The cooling fan is also important. The cooling fan helps keep the radiator cool, especially when the car is moving slowly or stopped. If the fan is not working properly, the radiator cannot cool the engine effectively, leading to overheating. 

Clogged or leaking hoses can also cause problems. Hoses carry coolant between the engine, radiator, and other parts of the cooling system. If the hoses are clogged or leaking, the coolant cannot flow properly, which can cause the engine to overheat.

Finally, low oil levels can also lead to overheating. Oil helps keep the engine cool by reducing friction. If the oil level is too low, engine components can become too hot due to friction, leading to overheating.

Anticipation

To prevent overheating, Daihatsu friends should regularly check the coolant level and add it if necessary. Check the radiator and hoses for leaks or damage. 

Pay attention to the temperature gauge, and if it starts to rise, pull over and let the engine cool down. Adhering to the car maintenance schedule will also help keep everything functioning well.

If the engine overheats, Daihatsu friends can do a few things. First, turn off the AC and turn on the heater. This can help draw heat away from the engine. Then, safely pull over, stop the car, and turn off the engine. 

To avoid burns, let it cool for at least 30 minutes before opening the hood. Check the coolant level and add coolant if needed, but be careful not to open the radiator cap while the engine is still hot.

Understanding these common causes and taking care of the car can prevent the engine from overheating and keep the car running smoothly.