Hot Under the Hood: Top Reasons Your Car Might Be Overheating

There’s nothing quite like that sinking feeling you get when you glance at your dashboard and see the temperature gauge creeping into the red zone—or worse, steam starts billowing from under the hood. An overheating engine is never something to ignore. It can be a warning sign of a minor issue—or a symptom of a much bigger problem that could leave you stranded or facing expensive repairs.

At Burt Brothers Tire & Service, we’re all about keeping your vehicle running strong, safely, and efficiently—especially in Utah’s hot summers and high elevations that can make overheating more likely. Let’s break down the top reasons your car might be overheating and what you can do to keep your cool behind the wheel.

Why an Overheating Engine is a Serious Issue

Your engine runs hot by design, but it’s meant to stay within a very specific temperature range. Once it crosses into overheating territory, things can get ugly fast.

Driving with an overheating engine is dangerous. Not only does it put you at risk of breaking down in traffic or on a remote road, but it also increases the risk of engine failure.

Overheating can cause warped cylinder heads, damaged gaskets, or even a seized engine—all repairs that can come with a hefty price tag. Quick action is key. The faster you can identify the problem and get it fixed, the more likely you are to avoid major engine damage.

How Can You Tell If Your Car Is Overheating?

Your vehicle often gives you warning signs before things get critical. Here’s what to watch for:

• Temperature gauge spikes: If your dashboard temp gauge moves past the halfway mark and continues to rise, that’s a clear warning.
• Steam or smoke: If you see steam (often mistaken for smoke) rising from under your hood, pull over immediately—it’s a sign of coolant boiling over.
• Burning smells: A sweet, syrupy scent could mean leaking coolant. A hot oil smell might indicate something more serious.
• Loss of power or dashboard warning lights: Some vehicles will limit engine power or flash a warning light when the engine gets too hot.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to pull over and give Burt Brothers a call. We’ll help diagnose the issue and get you back on the road safely.

Common Reasons for Car Overheating

1. Low or Leaking Coolant

Coolant (or antifreeze) is the lifeblood of your cooling system. It absorbs heat from the engine and carries it to the radiator, where it’s released into the air.

If you’re low on coolant, the system can’t do its job properly. Leaks are a common culprit, especially in hoses, the radiator, or the water pump. Look for puddles under your vehicle or wet, discolored spots around the engine bay.

2. Thermostat Failure

The thermostat regulates coolant flow based on engine temperature. If it gets stuck closed, it blocks coolant from reaching the radiator. Result? The engine overheats fast.

A faulty thermostat might cause temperature spikes, slow warm-ups, or fluctuating readings.

3. Malfunctioning Radiator

Your radiator disperses the heat carried by coolant. But if it’s clogged, cracked, or filled with gunk, it can’t cool effectively. Dirt, corrosion, or old coolant can all cause blockages.

If your radiator looks rusty or you notice overheating at highway speeds, it might be time for a radiator flush or replacement.

4. Broken Water Pump

Think of the water pump as the heart of your cooling system. It circulates coolant throughout the engine. A failing pump can cause poor flow, leaks, or weird noises like whining or grinding.

Engine Overheating, But Coolant is Full?

Sometimes the coolant level looks fine, but the engine still overheats. Why?

• Air pockets in the system can prevent coolant from circulating properly.
• A failed cooling fan or relay might not kick in, especially when idling.
• Blocked coolant passages from old debris or corrosion can reduce flow.

Our ASE-certified technicians at Burt Brothers are experts at digging deeper to find the root cause when the obvious fixes don’t solve the problem.

Failed Cooling Fans or Belts

Cooling fans are critical, especially in traffic or when your car isn’t moving fast enough to get airflow through the radiator.

If the fans aren’t working—due to electrical issues, a blown fuse, or a broken fan motor—your engine can overheat fast. Similarly, a broken serpentine belt can knock out both your fan and water pump at once.

What Can Cause a Car to Overheat in Traffic?

Ever notice your engine temp rising in stop-and-go traffic? That’s no coincidence.

• Reduced airflow: Without forward motion, less air flows through the radiator.
• More strain: Constant idling or AC use can overwork the cooling system.

To minimize overheating in traffic:

• Shift to neutral when stopped.
• Turn off the A/C and turn on the heater to draw heat away from the engine.
• Keep an eye on your temperature gauge and pull over if needed.

What Do I Do If My Car is Overheating?

First and foremost: don’t panic. Here’s what to do:

1. Turn off the A/C, and turn on the heater to help draw heat away from the engine.
2. Pull over safely and shut off the engine.
3. Wait at least 15-30 minutes before opening the hood.
4. Check the coolant level—but never open the radiator cap while hot!
   
5. Look for leaks or obvious issues (hoses off, coolant dripping, steam).
6. Call Burt Brothers or have your vehicle towed to the nearest location. We’ll take care of the rest.

How to Prevent Future Overheating Issues

A little maintenance goes a long way. Here’s how to avoid overheating down the road:

• Check your coolant levels regularly and have the system flushed every 2-3 years.
• Inspect belts and hoses for wear, cracks, or bulges.
• Make sure the thermostat and water pump are functioning properly.

Whether you’re prepping for a summer road trip or just want peace of mind around town, we’ve got you covered.

Stay Cool and Keep Your Engine Running Smoothly

Overheating can be scary, but it doesn’t have to lead to disaster. The most common causes—like low coolant, thermostat issues, or faulty fans—are usually fixable if caught early.

At Burt Brothers, we’re committed to helping you stay safe, save money, and avoid breakdowns with expert cooling system care. Don’t wait for the steam—schedule a cooling system inspection today at any of our convenient Utah locations.