Telltale Signs of Engine Overheating in Your Car
An automobile, like any other machine, has several parts that must work together to keep it running properly and smoothly. Small errors and issues in any one internal part can result in a major system failure. The internal combustion engine is the heart of a vehicle. The operation of an ICE is accompanied by a constant release of heat in a huge volume. To avoid overheating the engine, a special cooling system is used: its task is to maintain the engine's operating temperature at around 85-105 degrees. However, this part is complex, at any moment, capable of failing, which is accompanied by an increase in temperatures to extreme levels. The overheating can cause breakdowns that will require special repairs and maintenance work. Continue reading to learn more about the various reasons that may cause vehicle engines to overheat and the indicators of such an issue.
Symptoms of an Overheated Engine
The coolant temperature reading on the instrument panel is the first sign of an engine overheating. When the engine overheats while driving, the antifreeze temperature rises sharply, and the pointer enters the red zone. If the car has an indicator, an increase in temperature will be accompanied by an audible signal.
Engine performance changes, power loss, or failure to start.
A white coating on the electrodes of the spark plugs indicates an increase in temperature in the combustion chamber.
Darkening on the walls of the cooling system's expansion tank. This is only visible after inspecting a cooled engine.
Dark-colored flakes or foam in the coolant, which is, in fact, the oil that has entered the cooling system due to overheating.
Causes of Engine Overheating
Low coolant level - One of the most common issues that may result in overheating is cooling system problems. It is necessary to monitor the antifreeze level periodically and, if it decreases, bring it to the desired value. If the coolant is always at a minimum level, then air pockets may occur in the system. If the level of antifreeze constantly drops even when it is brought to the required value, a leak in the cooling system must be repaired.
Poor Quality Antifreeze - For some drivers, diluting or topping up antifreeze with water is common. With the prolonged operation of the motor in this mode, scale forms in the radiator cells, which impedes the circulation of the coolant. Poor quality antifreeze also causes the internal combustion engine to overheat.
Clogged Radiator - The radiator removes heat from the heated coolant so that it can return to the engine and cool again. There are several radiators in the car, and access to them is difficult, which is why it is so difficult to control their condition. If the radiator is clogged, heat transfer processes are disrupted, and there is a risk of overheating the internal combustion engine.
Faulty Fan - If the fan is not working optimally, this may block the airflow to the radiator core. The coolant will no longer reach the correct temperature, causing the engine to overheat and damage it.
Non-Working Elements of the Cooling System - In case of malfunctions in the cooling system, it is necessary to check the thermostat, pump, and pipe. Often, due to a defective thermostat, the coolant circulates incorrectly, so there is a problem of overheating. This also happens with a poorly functioning or faulty pump.
Other Malfunctions- Оvеrhеаtіng in the engine can also be саuѕеd bу the mаlfunсtіоnѕ іn оthеr ѕуѕtеmѕ that may include cylinder head gasket burnout or clogging and troubles with exhaust valve.
Conclusion
The degree of damage to the engine and, consequently, the cost of repairs will depend on how much the unit overheated. Keep an eye on the signs mentioned above to avoid severe overheating of the engine. However, if you are visiting Dubai and choose a car rental from us, you will not have to worry about any such issues. We regularly inspect our rental vehicles and get them serviced. Our clients are our priority, and we ensure they have a perfect driving experience when they rent a car in Dubai from us.