Few things are more frustrating—or dangerous—than watching your temperature gauge climb into the red while you're stuck in O’Fallon traffic. Overheating can leave you stranded on I-64 or Highway K, turning a simple commute into a sweaty, stressful ordeal. But why does it happen, and how can you prevent it? Let’s break it down.
Common Reasons Your Car Overheats
- Low or Old Coolant – Coolant (aka antifreeze) keeps your engine from turning into a molten mess. If it’s low, contaminated, or hasn’t been flushed in years, your engine will overheat.
- Wrong Coolant Type – Not all coolants are the same! Using the wrong type (like putting Dexcool in a car that requires Asian Blue) can cause corrosion and clogs.
- Water in the Coolant – Some folks think adding plain water is fine in a pinch. But in Missouri’s fluctuating temps, water alone can freeze in winter or boil in summer, leading to big problems.
- Failing Thermostat or Water Pump – If these parts go bad, coolant won’t circulate properly, and your engine will cook itself.
- Clogged Radiator or Leaks – Debris, rust, or leaks can block coolant flow, turning your radiator into a very expensive paperweight.
How to Prevent Overheating
✅ Use the Right Coolant – Check your owner’s manual or ask a pro (like us at Hillside Auto Repair) to ensure you’re using the correct type.
✅ Get Regular Coolant Flushes – Over time, coolant breaks down and loses effectiveness. A flush every 30,000–50,000 miles keeps things running smoothly.
✅ Never Just Add Water – A proper 50/50 coolant-water mix is key for temperature regulation. Straight H2O is a no-go!
✅ Inspect Belts & Hoses – Cracked hoses or a worn serpentine belt can lead to coolant leaks or pump failure.
✅ Watch the Temp Gauge – If it starts creeping up, pull over safely before you warp your engine.
Why Trust Matters When Your Car Overheats
When your engine’s on the verge of a meltdown, you need a shop that knows what they’re doing. At Hillside Auto Repair, we:
🔧 Use the same tools and equipment as dealerships
🔧 Offer comprehensive diagnostics and repairs
🔧 Provide a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty on all services
🔧 Handle everything from coolant flushes to major overhauls
You wouldn’t trust just anyone to perform open-heart surgery—so why risk your car’s engine with an inexperienced shop?
An overheating car is like a toddler throwing a tantrum—ignoring it only makes things worse. Stay cool (literally) by keeping up with maintenance and trusting the pros.
Question for You: What’s the weirdest place your car has broken down? (We’ve heard some wild stories!)