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OUR BLOG

6/7/2022
An overheated engine can lead to major damage and costly repairs; thus, it's crucial to learn what to do if your car were to overheat; to that end, read this post by AED Marketing Inc. in Pasadena.

Did you know that your vehicle is designed to operate within a specific temperature range? If the temperature inside your engine compartment rises above approximately 250 degrees, fluids could surpass their boiling point, and some materials could even melt. With the above in mind, it's critical to know which steps to take in case of having an overheated engine; after all, the warm spring and summer weather can contribute to your vehicle's temperature rising. To learn more about the main warning signs associated with overheating and the steps you should take to deal with this problem, continue reading this post by AED Marketing Inc.

Adding AMSOIL's Signature Series 0W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil to your engine can keep your vehicle performing at peak level for longer. If you want to explore more AMSOIL formulas and learn more about the benefits of feeding your machine with the most effective synthetic oil in Pasadena, call AED Marketing Inc. at (281) 507-8721 or click here.

Warning Signs of an Overheated Engine

Knowing when your vehicle's engine is overheating is imperative to handle the problem promptly, hence avoiding the costly repairs that may arise when extreme temperatures cause engine failure. Having pointed that out, pay attention to the following signs of overheating whenever you are behind the wheel:
  • The temperature light or gauge: If the car you drive is a recent model, chances are one of its dashboard lights is designed to turn on in case of overheating; otherwise, the dashboard surely displays a temperature gauge with a needle. If your car has a gauge instead of a light, you know that when the engine is running at optimum temperature, the gauge's arrow points to the center; conversely, if the engine starts to overheat, the needle goes up. Regardless of your temperature indicator, keep an eye on it whenever you are on the road.
  • Steam coming from the engine: If you ever notice steam coming out of your hood, it's probably because the coolant is burning up and evaporating. Of course, coolant is designed to keep the engine at its optimum operating temperature; however, once it absorbs too much heat, the coolant circulates to the radiator to lower its temperature. If the radiator presents problems, it cannot regulate the coolant temperature; therefore, the fluid exceeds its boiling point and evaporates as it burns.
  • Burnt syrup smell: If your coolant raises its temperature above the engine's operating range (approximately 250 degrees Celsius), it might emit a sweet odor while it boils, much like burnt syrup.
  • Loss of engine power: Of course, coolant is not the only fluid to be burned while the engine overheats. Extreme temperatures can also affect both oil and fuel, and when that happens, the engine loses power to accelerate as expected and diminishes its performance.

Reach out to an AMSOIL professional at AED Marketing Inc. and learn the benefits of giving your vehicle a synthetic oil change in Pasadena. Call them at (281) 507-8721 and find the most suitable formula for your engine. Don't forget to browse AMSOIL's online store to explore all the top-shelf lubricants and products your car requires to stay in tip-top shape.

What to Do When Your Car Overheats

It's time to review the steps you should take to deal with an overheated engine safely and effectively. Here's what to do:
  1. If, while driving, you notice that your temperature gauge is rising and steam is coming from your hood, stop your vehicle in a safe and preferably shaded location.
  2. The next step is to wait 15 to 30 minutes for the engine to cool down. During this time, keep an eye on the temperature gauge and make sure it drops.
  3. Once the engine temperature has dropped, open the hood. If possible, protect your hands with gloves to avoid the risk of burning yourself. If you don't have gloves, hover your hands over the hood to feel the heat radiating from the engine and make sure the temperature is safe before touching it.
  4. The next thing to do is to check the cooling system. When doing so, have your operator's manual handy so that you can locate the radiator and hoses. Ensure the radiator fan is not broken, the water pump is in perfect condition, and the hoses are not clogged.
  5. If the cooling system appears to be in good condition, check the coolant levels. If the reservoir is almost empty, top it up with fresh coolant and ensure the new fluid is not leaking.
  6. Finally, take your vehicle to the mechanic to have it checked. While driving it to the shop, pay attention to the temperature gauge; if you notice that the needle starts to rise towards the red mark indicating overheating, stop your vehicle again and wait for it to cool down.

Staying on top of your vehicle maintenance is essential to preventing an overheated engine. Call the oil pros at AED Marketing Inc. at (281) 507-8721 to get the most effective synthetic oil in Pasadena. Don't forget to stop by AMSOIL's online store to become familiar with the full range of high-quality motor oils, lubricants, and products.