Why Is My Car Overheating?

Your Mazda relies on its engine to operate. Since the engine is under a considerable amount of stress when you drive, it is also subject to developing problems. The engine requires the right conditions to function correctly, including having sufficient coolant fluid and having an internal temperature within a specific range. If the engine doesn't get adequate coolant fluid levels, or if it can't properly cool off, it is subject to overheating, which can cause larger problems and damage other parts of the mechanical system. It can also leave you with costly repair bills.

Leaking Cooling System

Your vehicle has a complex and intricate cooling system designed to regulate the engine's temperature and maintain the proper operating conditions. The cooling system itself comprises numerous smaller parts and components, including the thermostat, radiator, head gasket, and water pump. If these components break, the cooling system may be unable to transport antifreeze to help cool off the engine, or it may be unable to divert hot air from the engine and out of the car. If you notice dripping blue, orange, or green fluids from your vehicle, there may be a leak in your Mazda's cooling system.

Broken Hoses

There are also multiple hoses in your car's cooling system that can go bad and interfere with the cooling system's ability to transport coolant fluid. Like other components, the hoses tend to encounter problems as they near the end of their average lifespan. This can include developing corrosion, leaks, or holes. Sometimes, the hoses can't circulate coolant fluid because they were not installed properly or become disconnected.

Water Pump Problems

Normally, the water pump provides the pressure required to transport antifreeze through the cooling system. If there is a leak in the water pump or a nearby component, the coolant fluid drains out rather than passing through the water pump. The water pump cannot move coolant fluid around if there is not enough fluid in the system, to begin with.

Stuck Thermostat

The thermostat is a valve located in the cooling system. The thermostat's primary duty is to ensure coolant fluid reaches the radiator as required. The thermostat typically opens to allow fluid to pass through, but it can sometimes get stuck closed, which stops the flow of fluid. The fluid then stays in the engine rather than moving along, which leads to it getting too hot, causing strain and pressure on the engine.

If your car is having problems with an overheating engine, contact us for service today.