Why Is My Car Overheating?

Overheating Car Engine

If you’re taking on your commute from Omaha to Beatrice and asking yourself, “Why is my car overheating?”, then you need a reliable service team to answer your questions. What causes a car to overheat? There are many reasons why a car would overheat, from a leak in the cooling system to a radiator issue. So, if you notice that your car is running hot, you’ll want to book an appointment with us right away. 

Every vehicle has its own “normal” temperature range, but most cars tend to sit between 195 and 200 degrees Fahrenheit. If you start your vehicle and notice that the temperature gauge is reading higher than normal, do notattempt to drive through Kearny. Driving a vehicle that’s overheating can lead to hazardous driving and expensive repairs. Review our service tips below to answer “Why is my car overheating?” and more!

What Does It Mean When Your Car Overheats?

What causes a car to overheat? As mentioned above, a car that’s running too hot is indicative of a larger issue that needs to be addressed. What does it mean when your car overheats? Review a few causes here:

  • There’s a leak in the cooling system – In many cases, a leak in your cooling system is the culprit behind an overheating vehicle. The radiator, hoses, water pump, head gasket, and thermostat housing are all parts of the cooling system that can end up leaking. 
  • There’s a problem with your coolant – Whether the wrong coolant was put in your car, or you have an improper coolant-to-water ratio (50/50 is proper), your vehicle is prone to overheating. 
  • There’s a blockage in the coolant hose – Another problem that can lead to a hot engine is a blockage in the coolant hose. There’s a range of ways that dirt and debris can enter the system. Once this hose is blocked, overheating will follow. 
  • There’s an issue with the radiator – A blockage, leak, or defective radiator fan can all cause an engine to overheat. 
  • Your car’s water pump is broken – Your water pump sends coolant throughout the cooling system. A shifted pump shaft or a leak in this system can cause overheating.

What to Do When a Car Overheats

Are you wondering what to do when a car overheats? If you’re already driving, turn off your AC, and run the heat at full blast. While this may be uncomfortable, it will help pull heat off your engine. Once you can safely pull over, do so, then wait at least 30 minutes before touching the hood. When your car’s overheating, your safest option is to call a tow service and have your vehicle hauled to a mechanic of your choice. You should not attempt to drive to the service center!

You Can Count on the Sid Dillon Nissan Service Department!

When you rely on Sid Dillon Nissan, you can take on the Lincoln streets with total confidence. From answering questions like “What does it mean when your car overheats?” to “What to do when a car overheats?”, we can help you handle your car care concerns. What’s more, we offer insight on how to jump-start your car and even how to unlock a steering wheel. Our goal is to make automotive ownership easy, so stop by when you’re wondering what causes a car to overheat!



Nissan Service Coupons

Tire Rotation and Balance*

$39.95

Rotate and balance 4 tires. Check and adjust tire pressure. Complimentary multi-point inspection.

*Certain restrictions apply. See dealer for details. Price and offer availability may vary by model. Taxes and fees additional. No cash value. Must present offer to redeem. May not be combined with other offers. Nissan vehicles only. Void where prohibited.

Expires: 07/08/2026

Nissan Value Advantage® Brake Service* - Express Service

$679.80

Includes installation of Nissan Value Advantage® Brake Pads and Rotors. Complimentary multi-point inspection. No appointment necessary.

*Excludes Brembo® Brakes. Certain restrictions apply. See dealer for details. Price and offer availability may vary by model. Taxes and fees additional. No cash value. Must present offer to redeem. May not be combined with other offers. Nissan vehicles only. Void where prohibited.

Expires: 07/08/2026

Conventional Oil & Filter Change* - Express Service

$5.00 OFF

Includes Genuine Nissan Oil Filter and up to 7 quarts of motor oil (per vehicle specification). Complimentary multi-point inspection. No appointment necessary.

*Excludes diesel models. Using Genuine Nissan Oil Filter and multi-grade oil up to vehicle specification. Certain restrictions apply. See dealer for details. Price and offer availability may vary by model. Taxes and fees additional. No cash value. Must present offer to redeem. May not be combined with other offers. Nissan vehicles only. Void where prohibited.

Expires: 07/08/2026

 

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