Why do car engines overheat?
Sep 26, 2020
It is not rare to see a car speeding down the road with what at first appears to be smoke coming out of the bonnet. Initially, you might wonder why the driver does not grasp that his car is on fire. But it is not on fire, and that it is not smoke from a fire but vapour coming from its overheated cooling system.
MOTORING
Overheating could be the consequence of several problems such as a blocked radiator, cracked cooling system or a botched water pump.
Most car engines operate within the range of 195°F and 220°F. Any defect with these components can cause this temperature to rise beyond the normal level, leading to the overheating of your car.
William Kasooba, a mechanic at Makerere Auto Mechanism, narrates key things which cause overheating in a car engine:
Cooling system
The air that enters the system through the leak is one of the possible causes of engine overheating.
The coolant drips through the puncture, creating space for air to get sucked in.
The air takes the shape of a big bubble, known as an airlock and occupies the top part of the system.
The coolant cannot push through it to reach the engine, causing the overheating.
Condensed coolant
It is an annoying problem in cold weather, especially in those places where temperatures drop below the freezing point.
If the coolant is not high-quality, it can get concentrated and cause a blockage.
Such a condition will result in engine overheating and damage the radiator.
Coolant circulation
It can bring about the same symptoms of the gelled coolant. Sometimes, a defected thermostat, mineral deposit, or a foreign object can block the liquid from flowing through the radiator to disperse heat.
Low level of oil
Engine oil itself helps with the cooling process and prevents the build-up of excessive heat.
In fact, fuel removes 75% to 80% of the unused heat in the engine.
It also keeps various parts properly lubricated, reducing friction and subsequent overheating.
Broken water pump
It is one of the most frequent reasons for engine overheating. It is a component that actively takes part in maintaining coolant circulation.
It can wear out or break over time, leading to the damage of the impeller that does not turn anymore.
Caution
Whenever you notice steam or smoke billowing from under the bonnet of your vehicle, stop the car right away.
Steam or smoke appearing under the bonnet is not a good signal in any case.
It can illustrate other things such as leaking oil burning in the engine or an overheated car.
In this case, you should get your car engine inspected by a skillful mechanic in order to prevent further damages.