Calgary has dramatic weather shifts, from scorching summer days to frigid winter nights. While we usually worry about cold starts in winter, summer heat can cause significant damage to your vehicle, too. Car overheating is a serious issue that can leave you stranded on Deerfoot Trail or cause expensive engine damage. Knowing the warning signs can save you thousands in repairs and keep you safe on the road.

Warning Signs Your Engine Is Running Too Hot

Your car is always trying to communicate with you, and the signals are especially strong when it comes to overheating. Signs to watch for are the following:

Dashboard Temperature Gauge in the Red Zone

The most obvious indicator is when your temp gauge is getting close to the H, or the red zone. Modern cars are equipped with advanced cooling systems, and so if the needle is climbing, something is wrong, and you should pull over as soon as possible. Continuing to drive with an overheating engine can warp cylinder heads, blow head gaskets, or even crack your engine block.

Steam or Smoke From Under the Hood

If you see wispy clouds billowing from your hood, that’s coolant turning to steam. This is your engine’s cry for immediate attention. Never open the hood right away when you see steam because the coolant system is under extreme pressure and can cause serious burns. Let it cool for at least 30 minutes before investigating.

Physical Symptoms of an Overheating Engine

Beyond dashboard warnings, your senses can alert you to trouble:

• Strange smells: A sweet, syrupy odor indicates leaking coolant, while a burning smell could mean oil is dripping onto hot engine parts
• Unusual sounds: Ticking, knocking, or hissing noises often accompany overheating as metal expands and fluids boil
• Reduced performance: Loss of power or rough idling happens when extreme heat affects engine components

Common Causes Behind the Heat

Understanding why car overheating happens helps you prevent it. Several culprits are typically responsible:

Cooling System Failures

• Low coolant levels: Leaks, evaporation, or simply forgetting to top up can leave your engine vulnerable
• Faulty thermostat: This valve regulates coolant flow, and when it sticks closed, coolant can’t circulate properly
• Broken water pump: The heart of your cooling system, a failed pump stops coolant from moving through the engine
• Radiator problems: Clogs, leaks, or damaged cooling fins prevent proper heat dissipation

External Factors

Hot Calgary summers, stop-and-go traffic, and towing heavy loads all put extra strain on your cooling system. Regular maintenance becomes even more critical if you frequently face these conditions.

What to Do When Your Car Overheats

Stay calm and act quickly. Pull over safely, turn off the engine, and let it cool completely. Check coolant levels once cool (never when hot), and if you’re low, add a 50/50 mix of coolant and water. If the problem persists, don’t risk further damage. Call for a tow.

Keep Your Cool with Stampede Auto

Whether you are searching for a reliable vehicle or need expert advice, finding the right used car in Calgary makes all the difference. At Stampede Auto, we ensure every vehicle undergoes thorough inspections, including cooling system checks, so you drive away with confidence.

Don’t let an overheating engine ruin your summer plans. Visit Stampedeauto.com today to explore our quality pre-owned vehicles and experience the Stampede Auto difference.