When it comes to car troubles, an overheating engine is a common issue you might encounter. Whether you're a casual observer of a car problem on TV or film, you'll likely see a character pulling over to the side of the road, looking under the hood, and observing smoke coming out. The scene can evoke a sense of drama, but it doesn't automatically mean the viewer understands the signs or knows how to handle the situation.
To find out what a mechanic would say if your car is overheating, we reached out to several professional mechanics to explain the indications and next steps to take if your car is experiencing overheating issues.
Signs of an Overheating Engine
When discussing an overheating engine, we're referring primarily to the engine's temperature rising. Although you might not immediately see smoke coming out of your car’s hood, your vehicle will give you several hints that something isn't right. "If you work with cars like I do, you recognize the symptoms of an overheated engine," says Robert Walden, an experienced mechanic and the founder of Vehicle Freak.
However, it is essential to note that these signs apply to common situations and do not represent a comprehensive list. Moreover, John Lin, a mechanic and the owner of JB Motor Works, emphasizes that different vehicle makes and models may have specific requirements or symptoms.
Some common signs that your vehicle might be overheating include:
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You can smell something sweet
When your car starts to overheat, you might notice a sweet, warm odor or even see steam. This could be the first sign of antifreeze leaking into the engine. "It's coolant and is a symptom you should definitely be on the lookout for," says Andy Saari, a certified ASE Master Technician and the founder of Nexedge Technician. Lin explains that we can't usually smell the various fluids when the car is running properly. However, since they're busy keeping the car cool, their scent may indicate that they've reached the engine's hot parts. ```
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