Car Overheating? Did You Know Turning on Your Heater Will Help?

Modern cars are equipped with sophisticated cooling systems which feature computerized electric fans and numerous heat sensors. While these features help the engine to keep running smoothly, overheating is still bound to happen at one time or another. Some of the common causes of overheating include:

  • Busted hoses that require replacement
  • A failing cooling fan
  • Broken head gasket
  • Warped cylinder heads
  • A damaged or failing thermostat
  • Internal debris blocking the cooling system
  • Damaged radiator
  • A locked radiator air inlet
  • Low coolant levels

Mostly when your car overheats, you will notice steam emanating from your vehicle's front, particularly under the hood. You might also depict some weird and unusual smell coming from near the hood. Sometimes, your vehicle's temperature gauge needle might spike to hot, indicating extreme heat. Suffice to say, the only way to be sure is to drop by an auto repair shop and have a mechanic take a look for correct diagnosis, recommendations, and expert repairs.

Like most drivers, turning on your vehicle's heater might be the last thing you would do, especially on a sweltering afternoon during summer. But did you know this is one of the easiest ways to cool down your overheating car? I know. It sounds pretty absurd. All the same, turning on your heater on full blast draws the excess heat from the overheating engine into the cabin. By doing so, it alleviates the enormous pressure on your car's engine cooling system. Experts have it that this might even help to reverse overheating and restore temperatures to normal. So be patient and wait until the temperature gauge needle goes back to its normal position or the warning lights go off before you can hit the road again.

Trust The Experts

Switching on your heater and adding coolant might help you manage your car's overheating problem for some time. To be sure, have a mechanic inspect your car's cooling system to identify the main problem and help you correct it. If you need car service and repair, contact us today and let us get you back on the road promptly and safely.