Why is my car overheating in stop and go traffic?
Modern cars are equipped with an electric radiator fan that moves air through the radiator and cools down the antifreeze inside. When traveling at higher speeds, there is enough airflow across the radiator that the fan typically isn’t necessary. That’s why the engine temperature rises when you’re stuck in traffic.
What happens if you keep driving a car that’s overheating?
If you let your car overheat and keep driving, the cylinder heads will eventually begin to warp. When this happens, it can lead to a blown head gasket, which would require a lengthy and expensive repair. It also conflicts with the combustion process as the heads do not perform as well when they are warped.
How do you drive your car when it’s overheating?
What To Do When Your Car Overheats
- Step 1 – If you see steam, pull over immediately.
- Step 2 – Turn off the A/C, and turn on the heater.
- Step 3 – Pull over and shut off the engine.
- Step 4 – Let the engine cool and then open the hood.
- Step 5 – Check the coolant levels.
- Step 6 – If you need to continue driving.
Why does my car overheat only when stopped?
Car overheating can be caused by many things. Your car can overheat only when stopped or when driving at slow speeds, or your car can overheat at highway speeds. Low coolant level can cause a car overheating when stopped situation. Many late model vehicles have a pressurized coolant recovery tank, also called a degass unit.
What to do when your car is overheating?
Try to always have a bottle of antifreeze in the trunk of your car, or carry water with you wherever you go. When your car starts overheating, add in a bit of antifreeze or water. It will help to cool down the radiator and prevent future overheating.
What can happen if a car runs overheating?
Despite the fact that the car is overheating, an ample amount of hot gases still are traveling and exiting through the exhaust system. This can cause significant damage to the exhaust manifold and catalytic converter if the temperatures are high enough for a long period of time.
What can make a car overheat?
Another common reason for a car to overheat is a thermostat that is stuck. The thermostat can freeze or stick in the closed position which blocks the coolant from flowing to your engine. There are several other reasons for a car to overheat, such as a damaged water pump or cooling fan or possibly a clogged radiator.