Getty Images – Rodrigo Fersainz
The normal operating temperature for a vehicle is between 75 and 105 degrees. As long as it stays in that range everything will be in order. If it rises, a warning light on the dashboard will activate to alert that there is overheating. There are several reasons that explain why the temperature of the car engine rises.
The engine is cooled thanks to the coolant that moves through a closed circuit made up of hoses and pipes. Although there are several causes that explain overheating, the most frequent are those related to this system.
How to lower car engine temperature
Lack of coolant
One of the most common reasons why the car engine temperature rises is a low coolant level.
Normally, the lack of this component is due to the wear of a hose in the vehicle’s cooling system that causes small leaks. When this happens, the circuits fill with air and lose the properties required to achieve proper mechanical cooling.
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The good news is that this is an easy problem to fix: just fill the coolant reservoir, which you can do yourself. Moreover, it is highly recommended to monitor their condition every so often, especially before the arrival of heat.
Thermostat or water pump problems
Excessive engine heating can also be the result of a problem with the thermostat. When it gets stuck, it does not perform its function correctly, which is to open an additional refrigeration circuit.
Another fundamental element for maintaining the proper temperature in the mechanics of the car is the water pump. This is in charge of ensuring that the coolant circulates correctly through the system; if it fails, the entire system will fail.
clogged radiator
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Rodrigo Fersainz
Other causes that would explain the interruption of the circulation of the coolant liquid are an obstruction of the radiator and its inlets. To prevent this from happening, it is advisable to check from time to time and always after a long trip that there are no insects, leaves or other elements that obstruct the radiator grille, preventing proper ventilation.
oil problems
But, be careful, not always when the engine temperature rises above what is recommended, the problem is related to the coolant and the circuit through which it circulates. Engine oil is also decisive in preventing overheating that can be caused by friction between engine parts.
If there is not enough oil or if it has lost its properties, there will not be enough lubrication between the parts, which can lead to excessive heating.
head gasket
In the worst case, engine overheating can be the result of a head gasket problem. This component has the mission of sealing the combustion chamber to prevent oil and coolant from coming into contact. If it is damaged or melted, both elements mix, which poses a serious danger to the engine.
In extreme cases, a problem with the head gasket can lead to a seizing of the engine that can render it useless.
