Most people have experienced the telltale signs of an overheating car at some point. From a climbing temperature gauge to smoke billowing from under the hood, these warnings indicate a need to pull over and call for roadside assistance. As you do, determine what could be causing the issue from the list of common problems below.

Why Might Your Car Overheat?

1. Insufficient Coolant

Coolant regulates your engine’s temperature. It moves through tubes and draws excess heat from inside the vehicle. When levels dip too low—usually caused by a leak—the risk of overheating rises. If you suspect a leak is to blame, check for coolant pooling below the car.

2. Water Pump Issues

The water pump also helps maintain a stable engine temperature by controlling how much coolant flows through. When the pump malfunctions, it prevents coolant from reaching the engine. To see whether the pump could be to blame, listen for a whining noise when you accelerate. Don’t risk doing more engine damage by driving with a bad water pump; call for roadside assistance instead.

3. Bad Thermostat

Your vehicle’s thermostat regulates the flow of coolant and closes at certain temperatures. It works via a unique plastic that melts down and then resolidifies as needed. Over time, the plastic can leak and cause the thermostat to get stuck closed. In this case, the engine will overheat. If it continues to overheat after 15 minutes of simply turning on the engine, the thermostat is likely faulty.

4. Compromised Radiator

Your radiator brings down the temperature of the coolant as the liquid makes its way through the system. However, issues like particle deposits can block the flow of coolant, allowing the engine to get hotter. When the heat can’t be released, the engine will continue to overheat until the radiator is fixed or replaced.

5. Blown Head Gasket

The head gasket separates oil from coolant. When this component goes, it allows coolant and oil to mix, resulting in discolored fluids and issues in both the cooling system and engine. Left unaddressed, it can even cause a blown motor. Call for roadside assistance immediately if you suspect a blown head gasket.

Whether your engine is overheating or you’re experiencing another vehicle issue, allow Blystone Towing & Radiator to help. Serving Columbia, Dodge, Dane, Sauk, Marquette, Green Lake, Adams, Juneau, and other surrounding counties in Wisconsin, this full-service repair shop and towing company offers convenient 24-hour roadside assistance. Find out more about how they can help you get back on the road by visiting their website. Call (608) 742-4228 to speak with a team member.