Why Is My Car Overheating?

When Janesville drivers visit our Susanville center, we’re asked, “What does it mean when your car overheats?” Unfortunately, there could be several reasons why your car is overheating. How do you know there’s an issue? Your car sits at a “normal” place on the temperature gauge, typically between 195 and 200 degrees Fahrenheit. If you notice it’s too high, don’t drive your car. Get more information about what causes a vehicle to overheat, and don’t hesitate to call our service center with any questions.

What Are the Common Reasons Your Car is Overheating?

There could be several reasons why your vehicle starts overheating, but no matter the reason, it’s vital to have your car addressed and taken care of right away at our Susanville service center. With that said, below are some of the most common reasons your car would overheat:

• There’s a blockage in the coolant hose – Dirt and debris often get in the cooling system from driving around the Janesville area, causing blockages in the coolant hose.
• Your car’s water pump is broken – Your water pump sends engine coolant throughout the cooling system. If there’s a leak or a shifted pump shaft, it can cause overheating.
• There’s a leak in the cooling system – The radiator, hoses, water pump, head gasket, and thermostat housing are components of the cooling system, which can be susceptible to leaks.
• There’s a problem with your coolant – The wrong coolant or an improper coolant-to-water ratio (50/50 is proper) can cause the engine to overheat.
• There’s an issue with the radiator – There could be a blockage, leak, or an issue with the radiator fan, which can cause a car to overheat.

What to Do When Your Car Overheats

If you notice that your vehicle is overheating as you’re traveling to Standish, don’t stress! Simply run the heat at full blast. While this could get uncomfortable during the warmer months, it helps pull the heat from the engine until you can pull over to a safe area. We recommended waiting at least 30 minutes to open the hood with your hands. If you can, we recommend towing your car to our Susanville service center.

Get Trusted Service at Susanville Ford!

If you’re experiencing any issues with your vehicle, visit our Susanville service center as soon as possible. Our factory-trained and certified technicians know Ford vehicles inside and out, and they’ll work to inspect, diagnose, and repair your vehicle on time. Book your service appointment today, and check out our special offers and coupons! Keep your car performing at its best for years, and explore our handy service and parts information.