Skip to main content
Contact Us:
Call to 877-831-4677

What You Need to Know About Overheating Vehicles This Summer

Man opens car hood because it is overheated - Southern Harvest Cheap homeowners in Georgia.

With many parts of the country facing blazing summer heat, it’s smart to stay on top of car safety. An overheating car might leave you stranded on a blistering hot day. Even if you enjoy these hot summer days, they’re better enjoyed at the pool, not sitting in or beside your overheated car, waiting for the help provided by the roadside assistance portion of your auto insurance.

Stay cool by getting wise on how to keep your car from overheating.

Understanding Your Car’s Cooling System

You don’t have to be a mechanic to understand things about summer heat and cars. The most important thing to know is that your vehicle has its own cooling system, but if it has any problems, things can get hot quickly.

Parts of your car’s cooling system include the radiator, water pump, hoses, and coolant. Keeping these items maintained helps prevent summer vehicle overheating. In other words, one way to keep your car from overheating is to stay up to date on your maintenance schedule.

The Direct Impact of Summer Heat on Your Vehicle

Does summer heat increase the likelihood of your car overheating? Yes, it does. Just like you’re at risk of overheating when out in the summer heat for too long, your car has the same problem. Not only do you have the ambient hot temperature surrounding your vehicle, but heat also rises from hot asphalt and the engine running. Direct sunlight can also make your car’s internal temperature increase.

When your car gets too much of the sun’s rays and heat index, it’ll experience a reduction in fluids that are important to keep it cool. The tire pressure also increases when the temperature rises, so it’s a good idea to check your tire pressure on hot days to avoid blowouts.

Woman worried in front of her car because it is overheated

Signs That Your Car Is Overheating

As you embark on a Georgia road trip to see some of the best places in the Peach State, you will know something is wrong if you see steam rising from the hood and notice a burnt smell. These are signs your car is overheating. But these aren’t the only signs to be on the lookout for. You can also keep an eye on the temperature gauge. If it rises to the red or hot zone, then the car’s health is at risk.

While traveling to one of the summer arts and music festivals close to home, check your vehicle often. If you notice fluid leaking from the radiator fan or water pump, get the car checked out. This indicates you could be low on necessary fluids.

Preventive Measures to Avoid Overheating

You can take steps to keep your car’s “cool” in the smoldering heat, such as:

  • Check your coolant level, and add more coolant needed.
  • Clean the outside of your radiator with a water hose and a soft brush to remove dirt or bugs that could block airflow.
  • Check your hoses and belts for wear and tear, and replace them if needed.
  • Get your vehicle coolant flushed regularly (every 30,000 miles).
  • Park in the shade when possible.

Choosing the Right Insurance for Summer Driving

Your vehicle is an investment and you need it to get you around. Summertime heat can cause damage to your ride if you don’t take certain steps. The most important is to perform regular maintenance so your coolant system stays strong when you need it most.

Having great insurance is essential for all your summer driving. Reach out to one of our experienced agents for more information about getting a policy. You can get a quick and easy quote online. If you’d prefer to speak with someone directly, call us at (877) 477-8256 or find a Southern Harvest Insurance office near you.