Recently, I had to take my car in for service because it was over heating whenever the AC was off. Turns out, the AC relay needed to be replaced and the cost to fix it was over $1,000. Had I known this before I took the car in, I could have just fixed it myself for a fraction of the cost. In this article, we’ll look at how to check if your car is overheating and how to fix it if it is.
What Causes Car Overheating?
When your car overheats, it is important to investigate the cause. The most common causes of a car overheating are air conditioning and engine coolant. Here are some tips to prevent your car from overheating:
1. Check the air conditioner’s belt and pulley. If the belt or pulley is worn, it can reduce air flow, causing the AC to work harder and overheat. Replace the belt or pulley as needed.
2. Check the engine coolant level. A low level of engine coolant can lead to overheating. Make sure you have enough coolant and replace it if necessary.
3. Check for obstructions in the cooling system. Blockages can cause hot air to enter the car, leading to overheating. Remove any objects blocking the system, such as leaves or debris, and clean it if necessary.
How to Fix Car Overheating
When your car overheats, the first thing you should do is check your air conditioning. If the AC is off, your car will overheat. Here are a few tips to help you fix your car’s overheating problems:
1. Check your engine coolant levels – Make sure that the engine coolant levels are correct by checking the dipstick. Overheating can also be caused by an insufficient level of engine coolant.
2. Check for loose or blocked air filters – One of the most common causes of a car overheating is a clogged air filter. A dirty air filter will cause the car to overheat due to increased airflow resistance. To clean your air filter, use a vacuum cleaner and a brush attachment. Be sure to replace the air filter if it’s dirty or damaged.
3. Check for blockages in your fuel system – A clogged fuel system can also lead to a car overheating. If you notice any blockages, such as sediment in your fuel lines, take appropriate steps to clear them before continuing.
4. Check for broken or missing cooling fans – A broken or missing cooling fan can result in an overheated car. If you notice any broken or missing fans, replace them as soon as possible.
5. Replace defective or overused parts – If none of the above tips work, it may be necessary to replace defective or overused parts, such as the thermostat or radiator.
Conclusion
If you’re like most drivers,you probably think that your car only over heats when the AC is on. But if your car overheats even when the AC is off, there may be a problem with your cooling system. Here are four common causes of car overheating when the AC is turned off and what to do about them.