Diagnosing Why My Car Is Overheating

Like any car, your Kia could overheat and begin to not function at peak performance. An engine is designed to function properly by staying within a specific temperature range. Overheating is due to problems in the cooling system such as leaks, contaminated coolant or worn out parts. The earliest indication of cooling system problems is your temperature gauge or warning light on the dashboard which will indicate the engine is running above normal range. If you see this warning it is important to stop the car as soon as safely possible and have it diagnosed quickly. Ignoring an overheating condition can lead to much larger and more expensive problems later.

Leaks

The most common places for leaks to develop are in the radiator hoses or the radiator itself. When these parts develop leaks it will cause coolant to drain out of the system which will cause overheating. A leak can be detected by watching for bright liquid coming from your car, usually orange or green. This is usually accompanied by a sweet smell.

Contaminated Coolant

Like any fluid in your Kia, coolant must be replaced according to the manufacturer’s requirements to keep your vehicle operating at its best. If coolant is old, it can become contaminated with dirt and other particles. This can cause clogs that prevent the coolant from flowing inside of your system which will lead to overheating.

Worn Out Parts

Another cause of overheating is a worn out water pump or a worn out radiator. Similar to a clog from contaminants, this will reduce or altogether prevent the flow of coolant within the cooling system. Both can result in overheating, particularly in the summer heat. A worn belt can also reduce the efficiency of your water pump and cause potential overheating issues.

If you detect any signs that your car engine may be overheating, don't hesitate to contact our auto repair shop in Phoenix, AZ. We’ll assist you in diagnosing what the issue may be to help keep your vehicle on the road and running properly.

* For informational purposes only. For an official diagnosis and details on your vehicle, please schedule an appointment with our dealership.