At least 10 reasons could explain why a vehicle is overheating, but the average vehicle owner will not be able to diagnose or fix the problem. Bringing the car or pickup truck to a garage providing professional Auto Repair in Johnston IA is the first step toward resolving this issue. The owner might drive the vehicle there after adding enough coolant to the radiator, or the vehicle might be towed on a flatbed or with a tow dolly. The radiator must be cool before the cap is removed for adding coolant.
Malfunctioning Water Pump
A malfunctioning water pump is a common reason for the engine overheating. This can happen suddenly and without warning while someone is driving along the highway, leaving this person stranded alongside the road. For that reason, mechanics and vehicle manufacturers may recommend replacing the water pump at a certain level of mileage for routine maintenance. No mechanical parts last forever.
Problems With a Hose
One of the hoses that circulates coolant may require replacement at a garage providing Auto Repair in Johnston IA. The hose may be cracked and leaking or it may have become clogged with sediment. These disruptions result in an inadequate amount of coolant reaching the engine, causing the temperature to rise.
Malfunctioning Thermostat
Sometimes the thermostat has reached the end of its useful life. In cold weather, this might stop the heater from functioning effectively. In warm weather, the engine will overheat. The vehicle cannot be driven very far without a functioning thermostat in warm weather as the engine will continue reaching a temperature that is too high. This is another malfunction that can leave a vehicle stranded if the thermostat was never replaced as part of normal maintenance.
Watching the Temperature Gauge
The temperature gauge on the dashboard usually gives a reliable view of how warm the engine is. The engine may be overheating long before dramatic symptoms like steam blowing out from under the hood occur. By then, the radiator liquid has reached the boiling point. To schedule service for a car that appears to be overheating, the owner may Visit Ultimate Automotive Center to get started.
