In the Red (Why a Vehicle Overheats)
November 30, 2025
Heat is one thing that can damage a vehicle, especially if a problem isn’t taken care of soon. Be on the lookout for signs that it’s getting too hot in some parts of your vehicle, starting with the most obvious one: the heat gauge/warning light on your instrument panel.
When you see that heat gauge heading into the H zone or the warning light comes on, it’s often because your engine’s coolant is contaminated or running low. It’s important to let a pro look at it soon before serious damage is done,
The radiator is another trouble spot that can cause overheating. It has a fan that needs to run properly, and it needs to be free of debris and dirt. Another radiator trouble spot is the core. When it gets clogged and coolant isn’t circulating as it should, an overheated engine can be the result. Have your cooling system checked regularly, including its thermostat.
Your water pump is another part of the cooling system that can wear out, and when it’s not working right, your engine can get hot quickly. It should also be on the list of regularly checked engine components.
Finally, your vehicle has several rubber belts and hoses that play vital roles in making sure the coolant is getting where it needs to be. It’s important to have those inspected by a technician before they fail and heat starts to build up.
Your vehicle’s cooling system is complex and critical to its operation. Plus, it must be maintained so it does what a vehicle’s engineers designed it to do. When it comes to your vehicle, cool is cool, hot is not.
ABC Auto Works
127 E. Walled Lake Drive
Walled Lake, Michigan 48390
800-742-4511
Need Service?
More articles from ABC Auto Repair & Tire Center

No Shake, Just Smooth
June 21, 2026
When your vehicles wheels are out of balance, theyll likely give you some clues. Your steering wheel might shake, the floor or seat vibrates and you might find your vehicle pulling to one side. Other signs? Your tires might wear unevenly and may make odd noises. Plus, fuel economy might not be ... More

A Smart Inspection, Peace of Mind Before You Buy
June 14, 2026
With the price of new vehicles these days, you might be thinking about saving some money by buying a used one. But when you go to look at a vehicle, how in the world do you know what youre getting into? A look around the outside and a short test drive likely doesnt give you the confidence that... More

The Untold Truth About Blinker Fluid: Why Your Car Desperately Needs It
May 10, 2026
If youve been ignoring your dashboard, your mechanic, and that one guy at the gas station who muttered bro your blinkers sound dry, then buckle up because today we dive into the critical world of blinker fluid maintenance. What Is Blinker Fluid? Blinker fluid is a high-viscosity, luminescent com... More
