With hot summer weather, drivers tend to have their air conditioners on high. While cool air may provide you with relief from the warm weather, running your car’s AC full blast can lead to your engine overheating.
A car’s engine overheats when the engine is running too hot, which could lead to engine damage. Overheating can be caused by anything that decreases the car’s cooling system from absorbing and dispersing heat. A low coolant level, coolant leak, poor airflow, an eroded water pump, or even a defective radiator cap can cause your engine to overheat.
To prevent being stuck on the road, Roadway Insurance wants to help you learn how to prevent an overheating engine. An easy tip to keep your engine cool is to roll down your windows instead of turning on your AC. If you can withstand the heat and you’re not driving on the highway, using outside air instead of the air conditioner keeps you and your engine cool.
A vehicle’s coolant plays an important role in keeping your engine cool and low coolant is a common cause of an engine overheating. Be sure your coolant is filled to the appropriate level and is the correct mixture of water and anti-freeze. Replacing your coolant regularly also helps prevent corrosion.
Checking all hoses and belts for any that are loose or worn is another way to keep your engine cool. Your vehicle’s serpentine belt runs the water pump, which is a major component of the coolant system. A broken belt may cause your engine to overheat. If you are not sure on the hose and belts condition, contact a mechanic for assistance.
Roadway Insurance wants your summer drive to be enjoyable! Always be sure your car is properly insured before hitting the road. Roadway Insurance even offers emergency roadside assistance and towing as an addition to your policy. This service can come in handy if you find yourself stuck with an overheated engine. Roadside service includes route mapping, tire changing, lockout, battery and mechanical assistance!
For more information on adding roadside assistance to your policy, call or visit your Roadway agent today!