Test Your Radiator Cap’s Seal
A car’s radiator does more than prevent spills. It keeps the cooling system under a specific amount of pressure, which raises the boiling point of the coolant. If the seal is worn or cracked, this pressure is lost, and the coolant can boil at a much lower temperature, causing the engine to overheat.
Drivers should check the cap seal ahead of their next journey. First, ensure that the engine is completely cold, and then remove the radiator cap and inspect the rubber seal on the underside. If it looks cracked, brittle, or worn, it’s a very inexpensive but vital part to replace.
Clean Between Your Radiator Fins
The front of a car radiator is exposed to a constant barrage of insects, road grime, and debris. This can build up between the delicate cooling fins, blocking airflow and severely reducing the radiator’s ability to release heat into the atmosphere.
Gently use a soft brush and a low-pressure stream of water to clean the front of the radiator. Removing the built-up grime will significantly improve its cooling efficiency, allowing it to work as intended during the heatwave.
Listen for a Failing Water Pump
The water pump is the heart of the cooling system and is responsible for circulating coolant through the engine. The bearings inside the pump can wear out over time, and the extra strain of a heatwave can be the final straw.
When starting the engine, you should listen for a high-pitched whining or grinding sound from the front. This is a classic sign that the water pump’s bearings are failing and that it needs to be inspected by a professional immediately to avoid a complete
Keep Your Fuel Tank at Least Half Full
The fuel in your tank helps to cool your vehicle’s fuel pump. The pump is an electric motor that generates heat and relies on being submerged in petrol or diesel to stay cool.
When running the tank close to empty in extreme heat, the fuel pump can overheat, strain, and potentially fail. To prevent this, keep your fuel level above halfway during the heatwave, especially on long journeys.
Know the Signs of a Stuck Thermostat
The thermostat is a valve that controls the flow of coolant, staying closed when the engine is cold and opening as it warms up. If it gets stuck in the closed position, it will prevent coolant from circulating to the radiator, causing the engine to overheat very quickly.
A key symptom is the temperature gauge on your dashboard shooting from cold to hot in a matter of minutes after starting your drive. If you notice this, pull over safely and call for assistance, as driving any further could cause severe engine damage.
A spokeperson for the company explained: “In a sustained heatwave, the real culprits for overheating are often smaller, overlooked components that can’t cope with the extra strain.
“A faulty radiator cap or a clogged radiator that can’t dissipate heat effectively can cause major problems and a few simple checks can be the difference between a smooth journey and a roadside breakdown.”
