Oakland Expert Mechanics Explain Why Your Volkswagen Engine Overheats

So, your Volkswagen’s temperature gauge is displaying an unusually high reading… as if it is going to burst. We know what it feels like to be in such a situation. This blog post will help you uncover the trigger that might have caused your VW’s engine temperature to skyrocket. We have also shared a list of remedies that you can try on your vehicle to prevent the issue from worsening. Let’s begin by discussing the role cooling system plays in keeping the engine temperature stable.

The Cooling System: An Overview

You can think of it as the guardian of your Volkswagen’s engine. It is entrusted with a very specific task: essentially it aids the engine in achieving the ideal operating temperature. It does that by facilitating coolant circulation between the engine and the radiator. Controlled circulation of coolant requires active involvement of a network of parts such as water pump and thermostat. Should your Volkswagen’s cooling system opt for some time off, the engine temperature will enter the red zone.

If your Volkswagen engine is on the verge of overheating, most likely one of its cooling system parts has failed or coolant reservoir has dried up. Compiled below is a list of reasons why your engine temperature may enter the red zone.

Discussing Potential Culprits

#1- Low coolant

Coolant you put in your Volkswagen’s cooling system is essentially a mixture of ethylene glycol, water, and additives. Unique chemical make up of the coolant allows it to absorb heat- as it flows through the engine components. If its level plummets, the cooling system’s ability to regulate the engine temperature will be compromised. As a result, the engine might overheat.

#2- Flawed thermostat

The thermostat operates in response to changes in engine temperature and regulates the flow of coolant accordingly. As with any other cooling system parts, the thermostat can malfunction. A failed thermostat won’t be able to perform its intended function. This is something that might result in overheating or overcooling of the engine. A defective thermostat can also result in an unsanctioned coolant loss.

#3- Water pump failure

Another leading reason why a vehicle’s engine temperature might exceed beyond maximum permissible limit is a defective water pump. The water pump is considered as the heart of a vehicle’s engine cooling system. Just like heart pumps blood throughout the body, the water pump pushes coolant so that it can circulate between the engine and the radiator. If there is something off with your VW’s cooling system, its engine temperature will skyrocket.

#4- Radiator woes

The radiator is essentially a heat dissipating component. If it gets clogged up or sustains any form of damage, the cooling system’s ability to regulate the engine’s temperature will be adversely impacted. This in turn can contribute to engine overheating. A glitch in the radiator fan can also contribute to a similar trouble.

Tips To Prevent Engine Overheating

If you don’t want your Volkswagen’s engine temperature to skyrocket every time you hit the road, you should ensure the upkeep of your cooling system. Listed below are a few things that you can do to improve the efficiency of your vehicle’s cooling system.

Check coolant level

Inspect if there is enough coolant left in the reservoir. If its level has depleted below the recommended level, consider topping it off. Consider flushing your Volkswagen’s cooling system every now and then so that any sludge accumulated within can be eliminated.

Check cooling system parts

The condition of key components of the cooling system such as the radiator, water pump, and thermostat should be evaluated periodically. If you find a glitch in one of the parts, consider repairing it before the trivial-looking issue turns into an expensive repair.

Follow maintenance schedule

Stick to your vehicle’s maintenance schedule. Check and change different fluids used in your Volkswagen including motor oil. Not changing the motor oil routinely can contribute to all sorts of performance-related issues in a vehicle including engine overheating.

Here’s How Germany’s Best Inc. Can Help

Is your Volkswagen’s engine running hot??? Don’t ignore it by thinking of it as a minor inconvenience. Find out the trigger. If you lack the necessary skills and expertise, visit the nearest service center to get the issue addressed by certified technicians. If you are a resident of Oakland, Berkeley, Emeryville, or Piedmont, CA, feel free to visit Germany’s Best. We have been proudly serving Volkswagen owners of the said locations for over 25 years. Please call us or visit our shop to schedule an appointment!