Engine overheating is arguably every driver's nemesis. The dreaded 'H' that appears in the engine temperature gauge and warning lights flashing in the dash are familiar, unwanted sights to anyone. What exactly causes engines to overheat? We asked the seasoned techs on our Simsbury, CT Mitchell Volkswagen service department team. Here are two quick answers they shared with us.
The water pump constantly circulates coolant between the radiator and the engine block and heads. Liquid coolant collects heat from the engine, shuttling it to thinner radiator hoses at the front of the car. Air enters an intake system via the grill, cooling the warmed coolant coursing through the thin radiator hoses.
Faulty Radiator FanThe radiator fan helps expedite and circulate air sucked into the engine via a special intake system. Faulty fan circuitry or a faulty charging system can challenge radiator fan efficiency, preventing the optimal flow of cooling air into and around the engine block and heads.