Every Lawrenceville driver’s vehicle has a “normal” spot for their temperature gauge to sit. Most vehicles operate between 195 and 200 degrees Fahrenheit, and if your car exceeds this temperature, the engine can quickly overheat. As such, it’s best not to drive your car if you start it up and notice the temperature gauge reading higher than usual. What happens when your engine overheats? Numerous issues can arise, and none of them are desirable. Below, the auto service pros at Rick Hendrick Chevrolet Duluth will dive deeper into what happens when an engine overheats, some common causes, what to do if the situation arises, and how you can avoid it altogether.
So, what causes a car to overheat in the first place? An overheated car is a clear signal to you that there is a bigger issue to take care of. Here are the most common reasons overheating could happen:
In addition to the temperature gauge rising, how do you know you’re dealing with a car overheating? If a car is overheating, you will often see steam billowing out from under the hood. Additionally, if your engine is overheated you might detect a strange odor — coolant leaks usually smell sweet, while oil leaks usually have a burnt smell.
Even with diligent maintenance and care, your car might overheat someday. What happens when a car overheats? Engine overheating damage may vary depending on how high the temperature rose. Learn more, below:
While engine overheating damage might vary depending on how high the temperature gets, one thing is for sure: You’ll have a costly repair or repairs to take care of as a result.
Sometimes, engine overheating might not happen until you’ve already headed out on the road in Norcross. If you’re cruising along and notice your temperature gauge is starting to rise, the safest reaction is to pull over in a safe spot and call for towing service to your mechanic of choice to have your car checked out. If your car is still running as normal even though the engine overheated (aside from the rising temperature), you can turn your heat on while you wait for assistance as this will help to pull heat off the engine and might help to salvage it if possible.
Avoid the costly repairs associated with engine overheating damage by taking these preventative measures in addition to following a consistent maintenance schedule that includes regular engine oil changes:
If your car’s engine temperature is higher than normal, it’s important to have it inspected as soon as possible. Schedule an appointment at the Rick Hendrick Chevrolet Duluth service center today! Our factory-trained certified technicians will service your vehicle with great care, getting you back on the road safely and in a timely manner. Be sure to check out our service specials before your appointment, and contact us with any other questions you may have, like how to check transmission fluid or how to unlock a steering wheel.
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