Why does my car overheat when idling but not when driving?

Why does my car overheat when idling but not when driving?

The probable reasons for engine overheating when idle include a clogged radiator, broken radiator fan, low or no coolant, weak water pump, or a faulty thermostat. It will take someone with the right diagnostic equipment to find out for sure. It is also possible that you are getting false signals of engine overheating.

Why does my car overheat when I’m sitting still?

Failed Radiator Fan Your vehicle’s forward motion forces air through the front grille and across the radiator, cooling the engine. But, when sitting still, the radiator fans kick on so air still flows across the radiator. If the radiator fans stop working, your car might overheat when idling.

How do you unstick a car thermostat?

To fix a thermostat that if stuck open you will:

  1. Park your car on a flat surface and allow the engine to cool.
  2. Locate the thermostat.
  3. Remove the radiator cap.
  4. Disconnect the radiator hoses from the engine.
  5. Replace the valves in the thermostat hoses.
  6. Top off antifreeze fluid levels.

How do I know if my water pump is circulating?

With the engine off, open your hood and locate the water pump pulley. With gloves on, grab it and wiggle it back and forth. There should be no movement, if there is, this along with the noise is a good indication you may have a water pump problem.

What are signs of a bad water pump?

Bad Water Pump Symptoms

  • Leaking of Coolant. When the water pump goes bad, it may leak from the axle sealing or any gasket.
  • Squealing Noise.
  • Water Pump’s Axle lose.
  • Overheating Engine.
  • White Smoke From The Radiator.
  • Unstable Engine temperature.

What would cause a car to overheat when idling?

First thing you should test the fan and auxiliary fan (if equipped).

  • Check the radiator for any clogs and obstacles that can block the flow.
  • Check the water pump for erosion on the internal fins.

    • Why does your car overheat only when its idling?

    Common Causes of Engine Overheating. There are a number of issues that can cause your engine to overheat,most of which deal with the cooling systems.

  • Fill your Radiator.
  • Top off Coolant Levels.
  • Check your Fan Belt.
  • Inspect your Electric Fan.
  • Conclusion.

    • What you should do when your car overheats?

    Pull to a stop and assess your vehicle. The safest option on what to do if your car is overheating is to find a safe location and pull over.

  • Keep driving only when necessary.
  • Turn on the heat.
  • Open all car windows.
  • Check the Coolant and top it off as needed.
  • Start the engine again.

    • What should you do when your car overheats?

    Don’t Panic.

  • Turn on The Heater.
  • Pull Over And Turn Off the Engine.
  • Don’t Immediately Pop the Hood When the Car is Overheating.
  • Top Off the Engine Coolant.
  • Know When to Call For a Tow.