Few things can cause more stress during a drive than seeing the temperature gauge climb toward the red. Overheating can quickly lead to serious engine damage, leaving you stranded and facing costly repairs. Knowing the common culprits behind overheating can help you catch problems early and keep your vehicle running smoothly. At The Organic Mechanic, we provide expert cooling system repair in the greater Asheville, NC area. Here are some of the most frequent types of car trouble that can cause your engine to overheat.

Low Coolant Levels
Coolant is essential for regulating engine temperature, and when levels are too low, heat can build up rapidly. Leaks in the radiator, hoses, or water pump can lead to a loss of coolant, leaving your engine vulnerable. Keeping up with coolant-related maintenance, as well as repairing any leaks promptly, can go a long way toward preventing overheating.

Faulty Thermostat
Your car’s thermostat controls the flow of coolant through the engine. If it becomes stuck in the closed position, coolant will be blocked from circulating, causing temperatures to spike. A malfunctioning thermostat can also trigger fluctuating temperature readings, potentially giving you warning signs before a complete failure occurs. Replacing a faulty thermostat is a relatively inexpensive fix that can protect your engine from heat damage.

Malfunctioning Water Pump
The water pump plays a crucial role in moving coolant throughout the engine. When the pump fails, the coolant stops circulating effectively, leading to overheating. Because water pump failure can happen suddenly, it’s important to watch for symptoms like a grinding or whining noise from the pump area.

Radiator Problems
A radiator that is clogged, leaking, or damaged can’t effectively dissipate heat from the coolant.  In some cases, external damage from road debris or corrosion can cause leaks. Flushing the radiator at recommended intervals and repairing or replacing it when necessary is essential for keeping your engine cool.

Cooling System Repair in Asheville, NC

For expert auto repair in Asheville and the surrounding area, contact The Organic Mechanic at  (828) 232-8120. At our nearby auto shop, we can thoroughly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. And we’re proud to provide environmentally-conscious auto repair in Asheville. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment for car care in greater Asheville, NC!