If your vehicle overheats, then it may not be as reliable as you’d like. The problems with your vehicle could make it hard to drive it when you need it.
Scotty Kilmer has been a professional auto mechanic for over 42 years and shares his knowledge about car repair on YouTube. He says that there are a few reasons for overheating to happen, such as:
- Cooling system leaks
- Radiator problems
- Bad thermostats
- Blown head gaskets
Fortunately, he also has the answers for how you can fix your overheated engine DIY-style. Revv up your engines and get ready to fix your vehicle.
How Do You Fix an Overheating Vehicle?
Many things can cause your vehicle to overheat. To start on the path to repairing your vehicle, look at the radiator fluid level.
Radiator Fluid
When your vehicle is cool, take the radiator fluid cap off and check the levels. If it’s dry, then that’s the reason why your vehicle is overheating. Fill it up to repair the problem.
Pressure Check the System for Leaks
A pressure check system is available cheaply. Hook it up to the radiator, pump the pressure up and look for leaks.
Watch the pressure on the gauge if you don’t see leaks. If it drops, there is a leak that you need to look for.
Check the Radiator Cap
A leaky radiator cap allows pressure out of the system, which can lead to overheating. These are inexpensive to replace, so grab one locally to try
Check the Cooling Fans
Start your car up, then turn the AC on as high as you can.
Look at the cooling fans under the hood to see if they are turning. If not, there won’t be enough air in the radiator. If the fans aren’t turning, the motors may be burnt out.
Use a jumper wire to clip onto the positive end of the battery and the other to the red line on the fan motor. If the fan doesn’t start spinning, then you need a new motor.
Replace a Bad Thermostat
When a thermostat sticks, it won’t let the car know how hot it is. Pull it out of the space at the end of the radiator hose.
Unbolt it. If it isn’t opening and closing, it’s time to put a new one in place.
What if These Fixes Don’t Work?
If these repairs don’t work, then there will be one of two issues that are causing problems for you. The problem is that these are expensive repairs. The first problem is potentially that the radiator is so old that it’s unable to dissipate heat effectively.
The second is that the head gasket is starting to blow.
Of those two issues, the radiator is less expensive. Otherwise, the engine has to be torn apart to fix the head gasket. That can cost well over $1,000.
It’s a good idea to do a combustion leak test before tearing apart the engine. A blue liquid is added to the engine. If it turns yellow, the gasket is blown.
Get Under the Hood
If you have a car that is overheating, you can get under the hood and fix it. If you’re ready to find a new vehicle, then come over to Vehicle History to start your search.
