Here’s how to help prevent your engine from overheating
It’s important for your engine to stay running at the optimum temperature. If it gets too hot, major damage can be done. Let’s look at how to prevent your engine from overheating.
Regularly Check the Coolant Level
Develop a habit of checking your vehicle’s coolant level every month. If there’s not enough coolant circulating throughout the engine, the chances of you experiencing overheating increase dramatically. This is especially true when sitting in traffic on a hot day.
You’re probably dealing with a slow leak. By pressure testing the cooling system, a mechanic can track down the source of your problem. Remember, even a bad radiator cap can cause coolant to evaporate.
Have Your Belts and Hoses Inspected
To be on the safe side, be sure to have your coolant hoses inspected every year. These rubber parts naturally wear out over time. When a hose begins to look weathered or feels soft, it needs to be replaced as soon as possible.
Your vehicle’s serpentine belt also needs to be periodically checked. This belt delivers power to quite a few major components, including the water pump. If an old serpentine belt suddenly snaps while you’re on the road, overheating becomes a serious possibility.
Watch Your Temperature Gauge
Fortunately, the overwhelming majority of modern vehicles feature a temperature gauge. If you notice the temperature gauge rising above normal levels, the best approach is to pull over immediately. Opening the hood will help the overheating to clear out quickly.
You’ll likely need to call a tow truck. Do not attempt to drive your car any further until repairs are made. If your temperature gauge enters the red zone, avoid taking any chances. From the head gasket to the pistons, a number of different parts can be destroyed.
Maintain the Proper Oil Level
Motor oil does more than just lubricate the engine. It also helps prevent overheating. When there’s too little oil in the engine, temperatures will gradually start to rise.
Ideally, you should check your oil level every month. However, check it more frequently if you have a high-mileage vehicle. Some engines begin to consume oil at a faster rate as they age.
Park in the Shade When Possible
When summer kicks into full gear in Asheville, it’s not uncommon for temperatures to surpass 95 degrees. To help cool down your vehicle’s engine, try to park in the shade whenever possible. Always be on the lookout for trees and tall buildings, which can block the sun. While you may have to park further away from your destination, a little extra walking never hurts.
Turn On the Heat During Emergencies
If you happen to be stuck in a traffic jam and notice your temperature gauge rising beyond normal levels, turn the heater on full blast. This will help prevent overheating by pulling hot air from the engine. Although the extra heat blowing inside the cabin may cause you to sweat, the pros outweigh the cons.
If your vehicle’s engine fails or needs a complete overhaul, you need ASE-certified experience. A mechanic able to complete the work effectively, correctly and at the lowest possible cost. Residents of Asheville, NC rely on the experts at Cox Auto Service near Patton Avenue, just as they have for 50 years. You can trust Cox Auto Service for your domestic or foreign vehicle engine replacement.
Contact Cox Auto Service
Cox Auto Service is located in Asheville, NC, and covers the gamut on mechanical service for automobiles. Our highly qualified mechanics work on anything from minor repairs such as belts, oil changes, maintenance work to major repairs like engine and transmission work. We take pride in the auto repairs and services we provide. Rely on us to treat our customers’ vehicles as if they were our own.