An overheated engine is never a good sign and is something that could cause a lot of expensive damage. This is usually due to a failure in the cooling system. But what if your car gets hot when you drive slowly? Here are three possible causes for this to happen:
3. The thermostat is faulty
Your car’s cooling system is equipped with a thermostat that helps your engine warm up faster. When you start your car, the thermostat valve closes and the refrigerant cannot enter the engine. Once the engine reaches operating temperature, the valve opens and allows the coolant to do its job by absorbing the extra heat. If the thermostat is broken, the flow of coolant will not pass and the engine may begin to overheat. If you’re stuck in traffic when your engine warms up, it may seem like it’s just starting to overheat at that point.
2. The refrigerant is low or contaminated
Now, if the thermostat works fine, but the coolant level is too low or is contaminated by foreign objects, the same thing could happen as in the previous case. As with the thermostat problem, this might not show up until the engine reaches operating temperature. While this can happen when your car is idling, your engine will likely continue to overheat when you resume driving.
1. Radiator fan has a problem
Lastly, if your engine starts to overheat only when idling, but the needle on the temperature gauge starts to move down as speed increases, the most likely cause is something wrong with the engine. radiator fan. As you drive, air will flow over the radiator, helping the coolant cool down again. However, when stationary, there is no airflow. This is when the radiator fan should kick in; creating airflow until your car can move again.
There are many reasons why a radiator fan might not be working properly: the motor could be misfiring, there could be an electrical problem, or the fan could be blocked or physically damaged. Regardless of the reason, it is important to have this part repaired or replaced as soon as possible to prevent engine damage.
We also want to remember that, in this type of situation where your car gets hot It’s important to turn off the vehicle, even if you’re just going slowly. The best is ask for a tow truck and take her to a mechanical workshop. Thus, it will prevent the damage from resulting in a much greater one.
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