why is your check engine light on?

Your engine is undeniably the most important part of your vehicle, as it is the only component that creates power that causes your car to move. An improperly functioning engine can have a massive impact on your vehicle and can make it unsafe or impossible for you to operate your car. Overheating is one of the most common reasons why your engine may be operating improperly or inefficiently. Understanding some of the reasons why your engine may be overheating can help you identify the problem and get a mechanic to restore the operation of your engine back to normal again as soon as possible.

Low Coolant Levels

By far the most common reason why your engine may be overheating is not a mechanical problem at all, but simply because your coolant levels have dipped below where they should be. You can check the coolant reservoir, which is usually located at the top of the engine block under the hood (but check your owner's manual to be sure for your specific vehicle) to see if the level is above the minimum line on the dipstick. If it isn't, you can simply add more coolant – which is available at most auto supply stores.

Coolant Leaks

If you notice that you have to constantly refill your coolant reservoir due to chronically high temperatures affecting your engine, you should check the space underneath your vehicle after it has been parked for a while for signs of a leak. You should blot any liquid up with a clean rag to determine it's color: coolant usually takes on a blue or green hue, and its presence under your vehicle means that either a hose has cracked or broken open and needs to be replaced, which is a relatively simple fix, or the reservoir itself has cracked or has started to leak, which is a more serious repair.

Clogs

If your coolant levels are above the minimum level, the issue could lie with the hoses that connect your coolant reservoir with your engine itself. Over time, dirt and other pieces of debris can build up and create clogs that prevent coolant from circulating properly. If the coolant on the dipstick seems to be dirty, you should head to a mechanic to have the hoses flushed out or replaced entirely. However, clean coolant doesn't mean that a clog isn't present, so it's always a good idea to get your coolant system inspected by a professional at an auto repair shop if you have been experiencing overheating problems fairly consistently recently.