What Causes a Car to Overheat?

Wondering why your car is overheating or what to do when a car overheats? You’re not the only one to wonder such things in Minot! We’ve dealt with our fair share of overheating engines at the Ryan Nissan service center, and we’re here to provide you practical information and advice so you know what it means when your car overheats and what to do! Learn more by contacting us or schedule service today for an official car diagnostics.

How Do I Know My Car is Overheating?

Most modern Nissan cars operate between 195 and 200 degrees Fahrenheit. If you’re driving along Bismarck streets and you notice your temperature gauge is higher than normal (it should right be in the middle), do not drive your vehicle! Driving an overheating car can put you in danger, and it is likely to create bigger, costlier issues in the future.

What Does It Mean When My Car Overheats?

What does it mean when your car overheats while driving around Williston or New Town? There are several potential reasons for this to be happening, including:

• Cooling System Leaks: The most likely of reasons a car would overheat is a cooling system leak. Over time, cooling system components like the radiator, hoses, water pump, head gasket, and thermostat housing can become worn by high heat and pressure, making them prone to leaks.
• Coolant Issues: Whether your ratio of water-coolant (50/50 is proper) is off or you have the wrong coolant installed, coolant issues could be why your Nissan engine is overheating.
• Coolant Hose Blockages: Dirt and debris can get inside your cooling system or coolant hose causing blockages that lead to overheating.
• Radiator Problems: Whether blocked, leaky, or otherwise impaired, a radiator with issues can cause your car to overheat.
• Water Pump Problems: The water pump sends engine coolant throughout your vehicle’s cooling system. If yours has a shifted pump shaft or is leaking, it can cause your car to overheat.

What to Do When a Car Overheats

If you haven’t yet hit the road, don’t. It’s better to keep your vehicle safely at home if possible. If, however, you’re on-the-road already and your vehicle overheats, here’s what to do:

• If you’re running the A/C, turn it off and run the heat. This will help pull heat off your engine.
• As soon as is safely possible, pull over to the side of the road. Don’t try to pop the hood by hand for at least 30 minutes. You could severely burn yourself and if the cooling system is malfunctioning, get hot coolant on you.
• Call a towing service to pick your car up and bring it to your mechanic of choice ASAP.

Schedule Automotive Service or Repairs Today!

The Ryan Nissan service team is here to help you get back on the roads of New Town and Belcourt in no time with our expert vehicle overheating repairs and service. Check out our service tips, and schedule your next service with us today — we can’t wait to breathe new life into your vehicle by providing it with the maintenance it needs to run at its best for years to come.

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