Overheating Engines in Canadian Summers: Common Causes and Quick Solutions!
Overheating Engines in Canadian Summers: Common Causes and Quick Solutions!
Posted on June 5, 2025
Service Department Parts Department Myers Tire Centre
A hot summer day in Ontario might feel perfect for a road trip, but it’s not always great for your car. When the temperature outside climbs, your engine has to work harder to stay cool—and sometimes it just can’t keep up. An overheating engine isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a warning sign that something’s gone wrong.
Understanding why engines overheat and knowing what to check can save you from getting stranded—and from costly repairs down the road. Whether you drive a new vehicle or an older model, summer heat demands more from your car’s cooling system.
What Happens When Your Engine Overheats?
Your engine creates a lot of heat. That’s normal. But it relies on a closed-loop cooling system to keep that heat in check. If anything in that system fails—like the coolant levels dropping or the radiator fan malfunctioning—the temperature rises fast. Once your engine temperature crosses 105°, you could be at risk of damage.
Signs of overheating can include:
- Temperature warning light or gauge rising
- Steam or smoke from under the hood
- A sweet smell (leaking coolant)
- Engine knocking or reduced performance
Common Causes You Should Watch For
In most cases, overheating is preventable. Here are some of the most common causes you might face in a Canadian summer:
Low Coolant Levels: Coolant absorbs heat and keeps your engine from boiling over. If it’s running low due to leaks or evaporation, the system can’t do its job. You should always check coolant levels before long drives, especially in the summer months.
Faulty Thermostat: It regulates the flow of coolant through the engine. If it sticks shut, hot coolant can’t circulate, causing the engine to heat up quickly. Replacing a faulty thermostat is simple—and essential.
Clogged Radiator or Cooling Fan Issues: Radiators can collect dirt, debris, and even bugs that block airflow. Combine that with a malfunctioning fan, and your engine won’t get the airflow it needs to cool down, especially while idling in traffic.
Old or Contaminated Coolant: Over time, coolant can break down or become contaminated with rust or sediment. That reduces its effectiveness, which means your engine might not be getting the cooling support it needs anymore. Flushing your system every couple of years helps prevent this issue.
Leaky Hoses or Cracked Belts: Summer heat can make old rubber components brittle. If a hose leaks or a belt snaps, you’ll quickly lose coolant or lose your water pump—either one leads to fast overheating.
You can easily ignore these issues by following proven and reliable maintenance tips. No one is born with expert knowledge—these things are learned through trusted sources over time. That’s exactly why staying on top of proper car maintenance makes all the difference.
What You Can Do in the Moment
If your engine does start to overheat, here’s what you should do:
- Pull over safely and turn off the engine.
- Avoid opening the radiator cap when the engine is hot. The pressure can cause burns.
- Wait at least 15–30 minutes for things to cool down.
- If safe, check the coolant level and top it up with a 50/50 water mix and antifreeze if needed.
These quick checks might help you get home or to a service centre—but they don’t replace a proper inspection. If your car has overheated once, it’ll likely do it again until the root cause is fixed.
The Bottom Line: Prevention Beats Repairs
Overheating isn’t something to ignore. It can warp engine components, blow a head gasket, or even lead to total engine failure. That’s why regular summer vehicle checkups are so important, especially in Ontario, where heat waves and traffic congestion go hand in hand.
By monitoring fluid levels, inspecting belts and hoses, and maintaining a clean radiator, you can protect your vehicle from summer’s worst-case scenarios. Think of it as part of your regular care routine—just like checking tire pressure or changing your oil.
Reserve a Summer Checkup for Your Car!
Don’t wait until you see steam from under the hood. Visit the Myers Auto Group Account in Ottawa today and book your summer service. From fluid checks to full cooling system inspections, their team ensures your vehicle is ready for the heat.