How To Know If Your Dodge Engine Is Overheating
A Dodge engine that overheats can lead to expensive repairs if not addressed in time. The temperature gauge rising, steam escaping from under the hood, and a strong coolant smell are all signs that something is wrong. Ignoring these warnings can cause serious damage to the engine.
Overheating happens when the cooling system fails to control the engine temperature. Low coolant levels, leaks, a faulty thermostat, or a blocked radiator can cause this problem. Knowing what to look for can help you react before the engine reaches a dangerous level.
Signs That Your Dodge Engine Is Overheating
The temperature gauge is one of the most obvious indicators. If the needle moves toward the red zone, the engine is running hotter than normal. Some Dodge models also display a warning light to indicate high engine temperatures.
Steam rising from under the hood means the coolant has reached a boiling point. This happens when the engine gets too hot and the cooling system cannot keep up. A strong, sweet smell coming from the vehicle could also mean coolant is leaking, which lowers the system’s ability to cool the engine.
An overheating engine may also make strange noises. Hissing or bubbling sounds happen when coolant boils or leaks from the system. If these signs appear, the vehicle should be turned off and checked as soon as possible.
Common Reasons A Dodge Engine Overheats
One of the main reasons for overheating is low coolant levels. The coolant absorbs heat and moves it away from the engine. Without enough coolant, the temperature rises quickly. A leak in the radiator, hoses, or water pump can cause coolant loss.
The thermostat controls the flow of coolant through the engine. If it gets stuck in the closed position, coolant will not circulate, causing the engine to overheat. The water pump is responsible for moving coolant through the system. If it fails, the coolant does not flow properly, leading to high temperatures.
The radiator helps cool down the heated coolant before it returns to the engine. If it becomes clogged or damaged, it cannot do its job. Dirt, debris, or corrosion inside the radiator can block the airflow and lead to overheating.
What To Do If Your Dodge Engine Overheats
If the engine starts to overheat, pulling over to a safe location is the best step. The vehicle should be turned off to allow the engine to cool. It is dangerous to open the hood right away, as hot steam or coolant can cause burns.
After the engine cools, the coolant level can be checked. If the coolant is low, adding more might help for a short time, but the cause of the issue still needs to be addressed. Driving with an overheating engine can lead to major damage, so a professional inspection is the safest option.
How To Reduce The Risk Of Overheating
Routine maintenance helps prevent overheating. Checking the coolant level regularly makes a big difference. If the coolant looks dirty or low, it may be time for a refill or flush. The radiator should also be kept clean, as dirt and debris can block airflow.
Leaks should never be ignored. Even a small drip can turn into a major problem. Checking under the car for coolant puddles or stains can help spot a leak early.
Following the recommended service schedule helps keep the cooling system in good shape. Having the thermostat, water pump, and radiator inspected by a professional can prevent overheating issues.
Professional Dodge Service In Boardman, OH
At Kufleitner CDJR of Boardman, we help keep Dodge vehicles running at the right temperature. Our Dodge service department in Boardman, OH, is equipped to handle cooling system repairs, inspections, and maintenance. If your Dodge engine is overheating, we can diagnose the issue and fix it before it leads to bigger problems. Schedule a service appointment with us today.