It’s one of the worst things that can happen while driving.
You’re stuck in traffic.
The sun is blazing.
Suddenly, steam starts rising from under your hood.
Your car is overheating—and you’re not sure what to do.
Whether you’re using your car for daily commutes, deliveries, or long drives with family, knowing this information will help you keep your engine cool and running smoothly.
There’s no high cost needed.
Just easy, regular maintenance that anyone can learn to do—or at least keep an eye on.
Why Do Cars Overheat?
Engines naturally produce heat.
But when that heat isn’t managed well, things can get out of control.
The cooling system—made up of the radiator, coolant, fans, hoses, and more—helps keep the temperature balanced.
If any part of that system fails, heat builds up.
And your engine starts to suffer.
That’s why overheating often means there’s an issue with your coolant levels, radiator, fan, or even your driving habits.
It’s not just an inconvenience.
Overheating can warp engine parts, damage the radiator, or even cause total engine failure.
Start with the Coolant: Your Engine’s Best Friend
Coolant—or radiator fluid—is what keeps your engine from getting too hot.
Check your coolant level at least once a month.
Look for the “min” and “max” lines on the coolant reservoir.
Make sure the fluid sits between those two lines.
If it’s low, top it up with the correct type of coolant recommended in your car’s manual.
Never open the cap when the engine is hot.
Also watch for leaks.
If you see green, orange, or pink puddles under your car, that’s coolant leaking—and it needs immediate attention.
Coolant should also be changed every 2 to 5 years, depending on the type.
Old coolant can lose its ability to protect your engine.
Radiator Health: Keep the Core Clean
The radiator releases the heat collected by the coolant.
But if it’s clogged or leaking, your engine can’t cool off.
Inspect the radiator for rust, dirt buildup, or bent fins.
Make sure nothing is blocking airflow at the front, like leaves or plastic bags.
Once a year, it’s a good idea to flush your radiator.
This clears out dirt and old fluid that could clog your cooling system.
If you see steam or smell a sweet odor while driving, check your radiator right away.
The Thermostat: Small Part, Big Job
The thermostat controls when coolant flows through the engine.
When it fails, the coolant may not move properly, and the engine overheats quickly.
Symptoms include a temperature gauge that jumps up suddenly or a heater that blows cold air.
If you notice these signs, have a mechanic inspect the thermostat.
It’s an affordable fix that can prevent a costly repair later.
Cooling Fan Check: The Silent Hero
Your cooling fan helps blow air across the radiator, especially when your car is stopped or in slow traffic.
If your fan isn’t turning on, your engine might overheat, even if everything else is working fine.
You can check this by starting your engine and letting it idle.
After a few minutes, the fan should start spinning.
If not, the motor, relay, or fuse may be faulty.
Don’t ignore fan problems—especially during the summer months.
Don’t Forget the Engine Oil
Many drivers don’t realize engine oil helps control temperature too.
It reduces friction between moving parts, which cuts down heat.
If your oil is too low, the engine works harder and runs hotter.
So, check your oil level at least once a month.
Use the dipstick to make sure it’s within the safe range.
Also, change the oil based on your manufacturer’s schedule—usually every 5,000 to 10,000 kilometers.
Dark or gritty oil is another sign it’s time for a change.
Adjust Your Driving Habits
How you drive matters.
Avoid long periods of idling, especially under the sun.
This gives the engine no airflow, and it heats up faster.
Don’t overload your vehicle with too many passengers or cargo.
A heavier car puts more stress on the engine.
If you’re going uphill or driving long distances, take short breaks to let the engine rest.
And when you’re caught in traffic and your temperature gauge starts creeping up, switch off the aircon if needed and turn on the heater for a minute.
It may feel uncomfortable, but it helps pull heat away from the engine.
READ ALSO: Psychology Behind Filipino Driving Behaviors
Listen to the Signs of Overheating
Your car will usually give you a warning.
Watch for a rising temperature gauge.
Steam from the hood.
A strange smell—often sweet or burning rubber.
When this happens, pull over safely.
Turn off the engine.
Wait at least 15–30 minutes before opening the hood.
Never try to open the radiator cap while the engine is still hot—it can spray hot coolant and cause burns.
After the engine cools down, check your coolant level and inspect for leaks.
Bleeding the Coolant System
Sometimes, even after adding coolant, your car may still overheat.
Air bubbles trapped in the system can block the flow of coolant.
This is where “bleeding” the system helps.
It involves removing air pockets by opening a bleeder valve or running the engine with the radiator cap off (only when cool) until air escapes and the coolant flows smoothly.
If you’re not sure how to do this, have it done by a trusted mechanic.
Choosing the Right Coolant
Not all coolants are the same.
Check your car’s manual for the recommended type.
Common types include IAT (for older cars), OAT, and HOAT (for modern engines).
Using the wrong one can lead to corrosion or poor cooling performance.
In hot climates, choose a coolant with a high boiling point.
Some coolants are designed to last longer, meaning fewer changes over time.
You can also look for eco-friendly coolants if you want something less toxic and biodegradable.
Watch for Coolant Leaks
Coolant leaks can start small but lead to big problems.
Common leak spots include:
- Radiator and hoses
- Water pump
- Heater core
- Reservoir tank
Signs include colored fluid under your car, low coolant levels, or steam from the hood.
If you suspect a leak, check hoses for cracks, the radiator for damage, and use a pressure tester if needed.
Stop-leak products can be a temporary solution, but it’s best to replace faulty parts for long-term safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What’s the best type of coolant for my car?
Check your vehicle manual.
Most newer cars use OAT or HOAT coolant, while older ones may use IAT.
2. How often should I flush my radiator?
Every 2 to 5 years is a safe range, depending on your coolant type and driving habits.
3. Can I use water instead of coolant?
Only in emergencies.
Water alone doesn’t protect against rust or boiling and freezing like coolant does.
4. What should I do if my car keeps overheating after topping up coolant?
There might be air in the system, a thermostat issue, or a more serious leak.
Get it checked by a mechanic right away.
Conclusion
Overheating doesn’t just ruin your trip.
It can ruin your engine.
But with simple checks—like topping up coolant, inspecting hoses, and watching your temperature gauge—you can avoid the hassle.
It doesn’t take a mechanic to spot early signs.
And when in doubt, it’s better to ask for help than wait for damage.
Whether you’re a new driver or someone who’s been behind the wheel for years, a few minutes of care can save you thousands in repairs.