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An overheating car is a dangerous issue because it could lead to one of the most expensive fixes out there: engine work. Burning up any part of the engine isn't something that needs to be risked, even if it means employment, since the bill itself could set you back further. Instead of assuming the severity of the issue, consider a few potential problems in order to go to a mechanic with some knowledge to support you.
Radiators Are Pricey, But Better Than Engine Work
One of the main problems holding drivers back from getting their overheating car is knowing about the radiator. After the engine, the radiator is usually the most expensive replacement when it comes to overheating problems.
This is because vehicle radiators aren't made completely out of metal anymore. The core of the radiator is made of aluminum in most cases, but it is fused with a plastic-based composite that can't be welded the way that old radiators could be fixed. There are some temporary sealants that can help, but you'll need to drive carefully and under the risk of a full failure happening at a place you can't get away from easily.
Still, the radiator replacement is cheaper. The main radiator problem is a crack, fracture or any break in the surface of the component, and you should be able to see steam while overheating. With any repair, if you need to have the radiator checked, go with the mechanic to watch the testing and look for any steam or leaking water during pressure testing.
If you have the funds and want to avoid a near future radiator problem, look for a high-performance radiator, such as radiators marketed for racing.
It Could Be The Thermostat
The temperature gauge in automobiles is regulated by a thermometer, but modern vehicles have computers that handle the thermometer readings. Just like any computer it the world, the vehicle computer can either fail or get the wrong reading. Often, the problem is the thermostat.
Thermostat failure can happen either through debris clogging the thermostat--which will require cleaning--or a mechanical failure in the thermostat. The thermostat opens up during higher coolant/water temperatures to allow more liquid to flow through, and closes as temperatures drop. A thermostat stuck in either position is a problem.
If the thermostat is stuck open, there will be a constant flow of coolant mixture or water flowing through the cooling system. This raises the average temperature of your entire cooling liquid supply, meaning that the vehicle won't be cooled off as efficiently. Cooling happens by heat from the engine entering the water and being pulled away as water moves, but the hotter the water, the less heat that can be moved away.
A closed thermostat simply stops coolant from getting to the engine at all. Both problems are fixed by replacing the thermostat, but the mechanic will want to make sure that any debris is cleaned from the system. Watch the cleaning and get a sample of your own water to make sure the cleaning was necessary.
Keep an eye out for auto repair shops and contact a mechanic to discuss your overheating issues, and be sure to take care of the problem before it becomes more expensive.
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