Branch 1
Antwerpen / Merksem
Bredabaan 1052170 Merksem
Mon–Fri 09:00–18:30 Sat 10:00–17:00
Warning lights and starting
Engine running too hot: what does a rising temperature mean?
If the temperature gauge climbs towards the red zone or a warning appears, the engine may be overheating. That can cause serious damage within a short time. The cause usually lies in the cooling system, but which part is at fault has to be investigated.
Recognisable signs
What you may notice.
- The temperature gauge climbs or a red warning light appears
- Steam or a sweet smell comes from the engine bay
- The engine loses power or starts to tick
- The heater unexpectedly blows cold, or the coolant level drops
- The temperature climbs mainly in traffic jams or on a warm day
Possible causes
What may be behind it.
These are possibilities, not a diagnosis. A technician identifies which cause fits your car after checking it.
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Too little coolant
A leak or consumption makes the level drop. The engine can then no longer get rid of its heat.
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A faulty thermostat
If the thermostat stays closed, the coolant does not circulate to the radiator.
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The water pump or the cooling fan
A pump that no longer pumps properly, or a fan that does not switch on, can make the cooling fail in stationary traffic.
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A blocked or leaking radiator
Dirt or deposits can restrict the flow, and a leak can make the level drop.
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A deeper problem in the engine
In some cases overheating gives away a leaking head gasket. That is serious damage that needs investigating.
Keep driving?
Can I keep driving with this?
No. It is best not to keep an overheated engine running. Stop safely, switch off the engine and let the car cool down calmly. If the coolant is low or the overheating comes back, have the car towed rather than driving on.
Stop safelyStop safely and get help
At WeFix
What WeFix can check.
This is what our technicians can look at to find the cause.
- Testing the cooling system for leaks and pressure
- Inspecting the thermostat, water pump and cooling fan
- Checking the radiator and hoses
- If engine damage is suspected: investigating the cause before a repair is proposed
If we find something, you hear it first. We only repair after your approval.
Services
Related services.
This is where WeFix Auto’s can help with this symptom.
Branches
Call or drop by.
Not sure, or is it urgent? Call the branch near you and describe what you notice.
2170 Merksem
Branch 2
Brasschaat
Bredabaan 7372930 Brasschaat
Mon–Fri 08:30–18:00 Sat 09:00–12:00
Also read
Related problems.
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Check soon
Car is losing coolant
Coolant circulates in a closed system and should hardly drop at all. If you have to top it up regularly, there is a leak or the engine is using the liquid. The cause can be visible, such as a dripping hose, but it can also be internal and harder to find. Read the explanation -
Stop safely
Oil warning light on: stop at once or book an appointment?
A red oil warning light can point to low oil pressure or a low oil level. Without enough lubrication an engine can be seriously damaged in a short time. That is why the first answer here is not “book an appointment” but to stop safely. Read the explanation -
Check soon
White, blue or black smoke from the exhaust
The colour of the smoke gives a first hint, but never certainty. A little white vapour on a cold start can simply be condensation. Persistent, thick white, blue or black smoke points to a possible problem with coolant, oil or combustion. Read the explanation -
Check soon
Check engine light on: what does it mean and can you keep driving?
The check engine light tells you that the car’s computer has detected a fault in the engine, the exhaust or the fuel supply. The light does not say exactly what is wrong: that takes a diagnostic read-out and a proper check. If it stays on constantly, have it looked at soon. If it flashes, extra care is needed. Read the explanation
Have your car checked.
Request a no-obligation quote or call a branch. You hear what we find first.
Please note: This explanation is general information and does not replace a technical diagnosis. The cause can only be established after your car has been checked. If you are worried about your safety, stop and ask for professional help.