VW Scirocco IIIDuring the summer months, it is not uncommon for car engines to overheat. If you suspect that the engine of your Volkswagen has overheated, you’ll need to take it to a local, knowledgeable mechanic in Abbotsford for assistance. Ignoring an overheated engine can lead to major issues and repairs for your vehicle, so knowing some of the causes and warning signs of this car problem could save you money and time.
The Causes of an Overheated Engine
An overheated engine may result from any of an array of possible factors. Keeping the coolant in your vehicle clean and at an optimal level is an important preventative measure. Because coolant degrades after a certain length of time, you may need to have the coolant changed once every few years.
One of the top causes of an overheated engine may be worn, corroded, or malfunctioning parts. These parts include the head gasket, the radiator, radiator hose, and water pump. Other parts that may be worn and lead to overheating problems are the fan clutch, fan shroud, fan belts, and thermostat.
How to Identify a Potential Overheating Problem
You might detect an overheated engine based on an assortment of factors. One of the easiest ways to detect this issue is to pay attention to the temperature gauge on your car’s dashboard. If this gauge reads above normal, it means that the temperature of the coolant is higher than it should be. This can be an indication of an overheated engine.
If your vehicle is leaking coolant, you could smell a sweet odor that is similar to the scent of pancake syrup. This odor may indicate that coolant is leaking via a radiator hose or water pump. If this smell catches your attention, taking your vehicle to your mechanic is advisable.
Another warning sign of an overheated engine is steam coming from the vicinity of the engine. If you suspect that this may be happening, be sure to be very careful when you open the hood of your vehicle. When the engine is overheated and steam is pouring out of it, you could easily be burned by the hood or the steam. Generally, a mechanic is the most qualified person to perform this function safely.
What to Do When Your Car’s Engine Overheats
You can take a variety of steps when you believe that your car’s engine may be overheated. Keeping extra coolant or water in your vehicle can help you to fix the problem. Even if it’s only a temporary solution, adding coolant or water to a leaking system could enable you to get your vehicle safely to your mechanic.
When you notice that the temperature gauge reads above normal, one of the first actions you might take is to shut off the air conditioning. Running the air conditioning system can result in an overheated engine. Once you roll the windows down in your vehicle, try turning on the heater. Doing this will divert heat away from the engine.
Whenever your car manifests problems, the best course of action is to bring your vehicle to a reputable mechanic in Abbotsford. A knowledgeable technician can assist you in isolating the cause of the issue, so your vehicle may be restored to optimal working condition. Contact Collins Automotive for a free quote and answers to any questions you may have regarding your car’s potentially overheated engine.
Collins Automotive
Family Owned Auto Shop, Serving Abbotsford, BC and surrounding area since 1993
Does your car need service? Click here for a free quote!