Why Is My Car Overheating?

If your car temperature gauge keeps rising or a warning light appears, your engine is overheating. This is a common problem and it should never be ignored. Overheating can lead to head gasket failure or complete engine damage.

What Does It Mean When a Car Overheats?

Your engine runs hot by design. The cooling system keeps it within a safe temperature range. When that system fails, heat builds up fast.

Common signs include:

• Temperature gauge climbing higher than normal
• Engine warning light
• Steam or smell from the bonnet
• Loss of power

Most Common Causes of Car Overheating

Low Coolant or Coolant Leaks

Coolant removes heat from the engine. Leaks from hoses, radiators, or expansion tanks reduce its effectiveness. Low coolant is one of the most common causes we see.

Faulty Thermostat

A thermostat controls coolant flow. If it sticks closed, coolant cannot circulate. This causes rapid overheating.

Cooling Fan Not Working

The cooling fan pulls air through the radiator at low speeds. If it fails, cars often overheat in traffic or at idle.

Water Pump Failure

The water pump moves coolant around the engine. On many Ford EcoBoost engines, the pump is driven by the wet belt. When it fails, overheating follows quickly.

Blocked or Damaged Radiator

Radiators can clog internally or become blocked by debris. This limits heat transfer and raises engine temperature.

Head Gasket Problems

A failing head gasket allows gases into the cooling system. This causes pressure, coolant loss, and repeated overheating.

Why Does My Car Overheat in Traffic or at Idle?

Overheating at low speeds usually points to airflow issues.

• Cooling fan not cutting in
• Fan relay or wiring faults
• Blocked radiator

Why Does My Car Overheat on the Motorway?

Overheating at speed suggests a different problem.

• Low coolant under engine load
• Failing water pump
• Partially stuck thermostat
• Internal engine faults

Is It Safe to Drive an Overheating Car?

No. Driving an overheating car risks serious engine damage. Even a short journey can lead to head gasket failure.

What to Do If Your Car Starts Overheating

• Pull over safely and turn the engine off
• Do not open the coolant cap while hot
• Allow the engine to cool fully
• Contact a garage for advice

How Much Does It Cost to Fix an Overheating Car?

Typical UK repair costs:

• Thermostat replacement: £120 to £250
• Cooling fan repair: £150 to £400
• Water pump replacement: £300 to £900
• Head gasket repair: £1,500 plus

When to Book a Garage Inspection

If your car overheats more than once, book a professional inspection. At TGPP Autocare, we carry out full cooling system diagnostics. We specialise in Ford EcoBoost engines and engine related faults.

Visit or Contact TGPP Autocare