Why Is My Car Overheating?

May 28, 2024

Why Is My Car Overheating?

Common Causes and How to Prevent Them

Hey everyone, it's Stacey from Wayside Garage! Today, we're tackling a question we often get: "Why is my car overheating?" Jonathan and I recently worked on a Ford Escape with this issue, and we found some interesting things that we want to share with you. Let's dive into the details and learn how to prevent overheating in your vehicle.

Common Causes of Overheating:

1. Broken Belts:

In the case of the Ford Escape, we discovered a broken belt. The customer initially heard a belt noise but didn't think much of it. This belt drives crucial components like the water pump, which circulates coolant through the engine. When the belt broke, the water pump stopped working, leading to overheating.

2. Faulty Water Pump:

The squealing noise the customer heard was actually the water pump starting to fail. A water pump on its way out can seize up, preventing proper coolant circulation. This highlights the importance of regular fluid checks and vehicle inspections.

3. Low Coolant Levels:

Coolant is essential for keeping your engine at the right temperature. If your coolant levels are low, it can lead to overheating. This can happen due to leaks in the radiator, hoses, or the coolant reservoir.

4. Radiator Issues:

A clogged or damaged radiator can also cause your car to overheat. The radiator helps dissipate heat from the engine, and any obstruction can prevent it from functioning properly.

5. Thermostat Failure:

The thermostat regulates the flow of coolant through the engine. If it gets stuck in the closed position, it prevents coolant from circulating, causing the engine to overheat.

6. Blocked Hoses:

Hoses that are blocked or have collapsed can prevent coolant from flowing freely through the engine and radiator, leading to overheating.

7. Fan Problems:

The cooling fan helps draw air through the radiator when the car is not moving fast enough to cool itself naturally. If the fan isn't working correctly, it can cause the engine to overheat, especially in stop-and-go traffic.

Why Regular Maintenance Is Crucial:

Regular maintenance can prevent these small issues from becoming major problems. At Wayside Garage, we recommend having your vehicle inspected at least once a year, but every six months is even better. Regular inspections help catch issues early, saving you from costly repairs and keeping you safe on the road.

Key Maintenance Tips:

Oil & Filter Service: Changing your oil and filter every 5,000 miles or six months keeps your engine running smoothly and prevents overheating.
Cooling System Checks: Inspecting your cooling system every 30,000 miles or every three years ensures your water pump and coolant levels are in good condition.
Belt and Hose Inspections: Regularly check and replace belts and hoses as needed to prevent breakdowns and overheating.
Radiator Maintenance: Make sure your radiator is clean and free from obstructions to maintain optimal cooling performance.
Thermostat Testing: Regularly test your thermostat to ensure it opens and closes at the right temperatures.

Addressing minor issues like a squealing belt early can prevent major damage like an overheating engine. Our ASE-certified technicians at Wayside Garage are here to keep your vehicle in top shape. Call us at (831)-899-2425.

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ARE MY BRAKES SAFE?

By Stacey Diaz • October 14, 2025

October is more than just pumpkin patches and crisp fall air. For many families in Monterey, it's also the start of darker evenings, wetter roads, and more time on the road. That’s why October is the perfect time to think about one of the most important safety features on your vehicle: your brakes. At Wayside Garage, we participate in the Brakes for Breasts campaign every October. It's not just about brake repair — it’s about raising awareness, supporting breast cancer research, and keeping our community safe on the roads. ________________________________________ What Are the Signs Your Brakes Might Need Attention? Your brakes are your first line of defense in an emergency. If you’re noticing any of these symptoms, it’s time to get your brakes checked: • Squealing or grinding noises • A soft or “spongy” brake pedal • Car pulling to one side when braking • Vibration or shaking when you press the brakes • Increased stopping distance Ignoring these signs can lead to expensive repairs down the road — or worse, a serious accident. We always say: if it feels off, bring it in. ________________________________________ Why Brake Inspections Matter More in Fall With more rain, shorter days, and holiday travel ahead, your brakes are under more stress in the fall. At Wayside Garage, we see an uptick in emergency brake repairs this time of year — many of which could have been avoided with a quick inspection. Our certified technicians will perform a comprehensive brake check, looking at: • Brake pads and rotors • Brake fluid level and condition • Brake lines and hoses • Calipers and hardware And if you’re part of our Wayside Garage Maintenance Plan, your brake inspections are included with your scheduled services. That’s one more reason to stay on track with routine care. ________________________________________ Brakes for Breasts: Repair With a Purpose Every October, we join auto shops nationwide for the Brakes for Breasts campaign. Here’s how it works at Wayside Garage: • You get free brake pads (you only pay for labor and any additional parts if needed). • We donate 10% of the brake job to the Cleveland Clinic Breast Cancer Vaccine Fund. It’s a meaningful way to protect your family on the road while supporting groundbreaking research that could change lives. ________________________________________ Why Choose Wayside Garage for Brake Service? We know you have options when it comes to brake repair in Monterey. So why do so many drivers trust us? • Family-owned and operated since 1946 • ASE-certified technicians who care about doing it right • Honest inspections and clear explanations • Free digital vehicle health reports • A shop built on integrity, hospitality, and professionalism When you bring your vehicle to us, you're not just another ticket — you're part of the Wayside Garage family. ________________________________________ Schedule Your Brake Inspection Today October is the best time to have your brakes checked — and support a great cause while you're at it. Whether you’re noticing a problem or just want peace of mind before the holidays, give us a call or schedule an appointment online. Let's keep your vehicle — and your community — safe this fall.