Driving in the summer can lead to the vehicle overheating if it has not been maintained properly. There can be some issues that would cause the vehicle to overheat. If your vehicle overheats, you could be facing major engine trouble including a cracked engine block or other problems. Overheating can be caused by a few problems in the engine. It may be caused by a malfunction with the radiator, lack of coolant in the engine, or even a problem with the engine oil. If the engine overheats it could be doing more damage to parts of your vehicle, which can result in a costly repair bill in the future.
The radiator is one of the most important parts for cooling the engine. Without the radiator, there is no way to release all of the heat from the engine. Common problems in a radiator can include leaks or cracks. The main issue is that whenever these problems occur, there is not anywhere for the heat to go. It could also flow out of the vehicle so there is nothing left to cool the engine. If you see coolant on the ground where you park, there is more than likely a leak in the system that needs to be fixed. If you notice steam coming from under your hood, you have a real problem with the radiator that needs to be fixed.
Being able to complete fluid checks on your own can help to alleviate many problems. It is important to locate the engine coolant reservoir on your vehicle. Some will use a separate dip stick to measure the amount of coolant in the vehicle. Others will use a bobbing stick to indicate how full the reservoir is. If the fluid is not at the appropriate level, make sure that it is filled up. If the fluid looks dirty, it may need to be changed.
The engine oil you are using has a major effect on your vehicle. Not only do you need to make sure to have the right amount of oil, but you also need to use the right kind. By using the wrong oil, it is possible for it to break down faster. The faster your engine oil breaks down, the less lubrication it will provide to moving parts. When this happens, the parts will start rubbing against each other more and the engine will start to heat up. High performance engines should always use synthetic oil because it does not break down as quickly. If you are unsure how often to bring the vehicle in for an oil change, make sure to contact us, and we can inspect the vehicle for you.