Why Is My Car Overheating? 3 Common Causes Drivers Should Know
When your temperature gauge starts climbing or you see steam from under the hood, it’s not something to ignore. Engine overheating can quickly turn into expensive repairs if left unchecked. At Harlan Automotive, these are common reasons we see vehicles overheating.
1. Low Coolant or a Coolant Leak
Your cooling system depends on antifreeze (coolant) to regulate engine temperature. If coolant is low due to a leaking hose, radiator, water pump, or reservoir, your engine won't be able to properly remove the heat.
Warning signs:
Sweet smell under the hood
Colored fluid under your vehicle
Temperature gauge running high
Catching a coolant leak early can prevent major engine damage.
2. Faulty Thermostat
The thermostat controls coolant flow through your engine. If it gets stuck closed, coolant can’t circulate properly, causing temperatures to spike quickly.
Common symptoms:
This is often an affordable fix—if addressed quickly.
3. Radiator or Cooling Fan Problems
Your radiator removes heat from the coolant before it cycles back through the engine. If it’s clogged, leaking, or the cooling fan fails, heat builds up fast—especially in traffic or hot weather.
What to Look for:
Overheating while idling
Coolant leaks
Visible radiator damage
Don’t Ignore an Overheating Engine
If your vehicle starts overheating, pull over safely and shut it off. Continuing to drive—even for a short distance—can lead to severe engine damage.
At Harlan Automotive in Murray and Paducah, KY, we specialize in diagnosing and repairing cooling system issues before they become major problems. We’re here to help you stay safely on the road — "Taking Care of People and the Cars They Drive."