As there is no smoke without fire, there are reasons behind your car overheating then going back to normal again. This article will fill you in on the mysterious reasons behind car overheating, regardless of coolant or a new thermostat, and provide guidance on how far the car should be driven when overheating. You will also learn about a lower coolant level.
Engines can overheat for several reasons, including a faulty water pump that hinders the proper circulation of coolant throughout the engine. Let’s consider these reasons responsible for overheating.
What Could Cause My Car to Overheat Then Go Back to Normal?
1. A Bad Thermostat
A faulty thermostat is a primary reason behind an overheating vehicle. It regulates the temperature by controlling the flow of hot water throughout the engine. If the thermostat fails, water regulation becomes unsteady and could result in overheating.
2. Low Coolant Levels
Low coolant levels could be responsible for your vehicle overheating. Coolant is a fluid that flows through the engine to keep it at a reasonable temperature. Exhaustion of coolant through leaks or untimely refills can lead to increased engine temperature and subsequent overheating.
3. A Faulty Radiator
The radiator removes heat from the engine by dissipating it into the air. If the radiator develops a fault, heat accumulates around the engine, resulting in overheating when distributed throughout the vehicle.
4. Water Pump Failure
The water pump circulates coolant throughout the engine to reduce heat. If the water pump fails, the engine will get excessively hot, leading to vehicle overheating.
5. Bad Sensors
Sometimes, the overheating of your vehicle might not originate from the engine. When the sensor recording the engine becomes faulty, it may provide incorrect data, leading you to believe the engine is heating up when it’s not. This can also cause temperature fluctuations in your car.
6. Low Engine Oil Levels
Engine oil lubricates engine parts to lower the temperature generated during operation. If the oil level decreases significantly, the vehicle may overheat. Regularly checking your oil level helps prevent overheating.
7. Plugged Heater Core
The heater core controls the coolant flow in your vehicle and provides warmth during cold periods. If this device gets plugged, it can cause overheating, resulting in a drastic rise in the car’s temperature.
Also Read: Can a Car Battery Die While Driving? (Causes and Solutions)
How Do I Fix a Car That’s Overheating Then Going Back to Normal?
Perform a vehicle diagnostic to determine the main cause. Seek the help of a trusted and professional automobile engineer, especially for issues related to coolant systems that occur when the engine is inactive.
Possible solutions include:
1. Replace the failing thermostat
A failed thermostat can cause overheating by affecting the flow of hot water into the radiator. Replacement should be considered in such cases.
2. Check for leaking coolant
Coolant leaks are a common issue. Inspect underneath your car, the coolant reservoir, temperature gauge, and the coolant itself to determine if it is being exhausted rapidly. If positive, consult a mechanic to fix the cause of the overheating.
3. Replace the radiator
A faulty radiator is a common cause of overheating. If it fails to regulate coolant flow throughout the engine, it can lead to serious issues. Consider replacing it if necessary.
4. Turn on the heater
Although not a permanent solution, turning on the heater can divert heat from the engine to the car’s interior, buying you enough time until you reach home or a mechanic.
Why Is My Car Engine Overheating but Coolant Full?
There are several reasons why your vehicle may overheat even with a full coolant. Sometimes, faults in the coolant system can trap heat in the engine compartment.
Other potential causes include leaks in the cooling system, a faulty radiator fan, a clogged coolant hose, or a damaged water pump. Overheating engines should not be ignored, as they can lead to irreparable damage if left unchecked.
If you notice any overheating abnormalities, take appropriate action. Additional posts are available to provide further ideas.
Why Is a Car Engine Overheating but Coolant Full & Radiator Is Cool to Touch?
In such cases, it is possible that your vehicle is not actually overheating, and you may need to change your radiator cap. If the radiator cap fails to hold in pressure, it can cause your engine to overheat. Even if the temperature gauge appears normal, pressure can still escape, producing steam and generating heat.
Keynote: The vehicle’s cooling system is designed to remove heat from the engine block by circulating coolant through cooling pipes and dissipating the heat into the air through the radiator. When the cooling system lacks coolant, it fails to function properly and can result in engine overheating. Periodically check your coolant reservoir to ensure it has sufficient coolant.
If your vehicle remains cold even after being left overnight, it indicates that the coolant level is adequate, and the cooling system is working correctly. However, if the car is heating up, it suggests a low coolant level.
Also Read: Car Won’t Move In Drive (Causes & Solutions)
The Car Overheats, but the Radiator Is Cool to Touch
Ensure that the coolant is filled and there are no leaks. To remove air bubbles, squeeze the hoses connected to the car’s engine while adding coolant. Start the engine for a few seconds without the radiator, and repeat this process a couple more times. Additionally, remove the thermostat and test the engine without it. Boil some water and submerge the thermostat; if it fails to open, tap or open it manually. Ensure the thermostat is correctly installed for proper coolant flow.
Why Is My Car Overheating but It Has Coolant in It?
Having coolant in your vehicle doesn’t guarantee it won’t overheat. Overheating can cause parts to tighten up or get distorted, which is detrimental to your car. While the cooling system is crucial, it often isn’t treated as an emergency when it malfunctions, especially in cars that generate high temperatures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my car only overheat sometimes?
If your car overheats due to a faulty radiator, thoroughly inspect the radiator fan. An unstable connection or broken blades can hinder the radiator’s cooling effect.
Why does my car temp go up and down?
Inconsistent temperature fluctuations in the car can be caused by components in the cooling system that are not functioning properly. This includes radiator hoses, thermostat valve, temperature gauge, radiator fan, or coolant that cools the engine.
Can a car be okay after overheating?
No, driving a vehicle that has overheated can strain your engine and lead to further problems, such as a damaged cooling fan, faulty radiator caps, and coolant leaks. It is not advisable to ignore an overheating engine.
What causes intermittent overheating?
Thermostat blockages restrict the flow of cooling fluids to the engine, causing the car to overheat. Coolant leaks, both internal and external, can also reduce coolant levels and result in blown head gaskets, leading to overall cooling issues.
Can low oil cause overheating?
Low oil levels can cause the engine to overheat, even if the coolant level is sufficient. Insufficient oil can lead to overheating.
How long before an engine is damaged from overheating?
Engine damage can occur within 30 to 60 seconds of overheating. It is important to take immediate action when you notice your vehicle is overheating to avoid further problems, such as a damaged cooling fan, faulty radiator caps, and coolant leaks.
Final Thoughts
Your car overheating can result in engine failure and the need for a total replacement. Do not ignore it or act as if nothing happened. Seek the assistance of a reputable mechanic immediately before the issue becomes more severe and expensive.