Overheating
Why is my car overheating?
An overheating engine is one of the few car problems that can cause serious, expensive damage in minutes. Knowing what to do in the moment — and what is likely causing it — can save your engine and your wallet.
Quick Answer
A car overheats most often because of low coolant from a leak, a stuck thermostat, or a failing water pump that can’t circulate coolant. A bad radiator, cooling fan, or head-gasket leak can also be responsible. If your temperature gauge spikes, pull over safely and shut the engine off to avoid permanent damage.
Safety First
If your temperature gauge is in the red or you see steam, pull over and turn the engine off immediately. Do not open the radiator cap while hot. Let it cool 30 minutes, then have it towed if needed — driving an overheated engine can warp the cylinder head or crack the block.
Most Likely Causes
Listed from most to least likely. Only a proper inspection can confirm the exact cause for your vehicle.
- 1
Low coolant / cooling-system leak
Most likelyA leak from a hose, the radiator, or the water pump lowers coolant level so the engine can no longer shed heat. Look for puddles of green, orange, or pink fluid.
- 2
Stuck thermostat
CommonA thermostat stuck closed blocks coolant from reaching the radiator, causing rapid overheating even when the system is full.
- 3
Failing water pump
PossibleThe water pump circulates coolant. When it fails, coolant stops moving and the engine overheats, often with a leak or whining noise.
- 4
Bad radiator or cooling fan
Less commonA clogged radiator or an electric cooling fan that stops working causes overheating, especially in stop-and-go traffic. Altitude adds stress to Colorado cooling systems.
How Adam & Son Diagnoses It
Pressure test
We pressure-test the cooling system to find leaks and check coolant condition and level.
Component check
We test the thermostat, water pump, radiator, and cooling fan to find why heat is not being removed.
Transparent estimate
You get photos of the problem and a clear estimate — we recommend only what is necessary.
Related Services
The repairs and inspections that address this symptom.
Frequently Asked Questions
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