Summer in Nevada can be brutal, with scorching temperatures pushing your vehicle’s cooling system to its limits. Your cooling system’s main job is to prevent your engine from overheating by dissipating excess heat. When it fails, it can leave you stranded on the side of the road and facing expensive repairs. Knowing what to watch for during the hottest months helps you stay ahead of problems and keep your car running safely.
Why Your Cooling System Matters
Your engine produces an enormous amount of heat while it’s running. The cooling system circulates coolant (a mixture of water and antifreeze) through the engine and radiator to keep temperatures in check.
If any part of this system fails, whether it's a leak, a faulty thermostat, or a broken fan, your engine can overheat quickly, leading to severe damage such as warped cylinder heads or a blown head gasket.
Common Summer Cooling System Problems
Low Coolant Levels
Coolant can slowly leak or evaporate over time. Hot weather accelerates these issues, as higher temperatures cause increased pressure inside the system.
Low coolant levels reduce the system’s ability to absorb heat, making your engine more likely to overheat, especially in stop-and-go traffic.
Faulty Thermostat
The thermostat regulates coolant flow based on engine temperature. If it gets stuck closed, coolant can’t circulate properly, causing rapid overheating.
A malfunctioning thermostat is a common cause of summer overheating, and it can often fail without warning.
Radiator and Hose Leaks
The radiator and its connected hoses can develop cracks or leaks over time, especially when exposed to extreme heat.
Leaking coolant may leave puddles under your vehicle or create a sweet smell under the hood. Even small leaks can quickly escalate into big problems if ignored.
Failing Water Pump
The water pump keeps coolant circulating throughout the system. When it starts to fail, you might notice a whining noise or coolant leaks around the front of the engine.
A failing water pump can completely stop circulation, resulting in immediate and severe overheating.
Broken Cooling Fans
Cooling fans draw air through the radiator to help dissipate heat, especially when the car is stopped or moving at a slow speed.
If the fans aren’t working properly, the radiator can’t dissipate heat efficiently, and the engine can overheat even if the rest of the system is in good condition.
Warning Signs to Watch For
Your vehicle will usually give you some hints that the cooling system is in trouble. Watch for:
- Temperature gauge rising above normal.
- Steam or smoke coming from under the hood.
- Coolant warning lights on the dashboard.
- Unusual smells (sweet or burning odors).
If you notice any of these signs, pull over as soon as it’s safe, turn off the engine, and let it cool down. Continuing to drive with an overheating engine can lead to catastrophic and expensive damage.
The Importance of Preventive Maintenance
Before summer heat peaks, have your cooling system inspected by a professional. Regular checks include:
- Inspecting coolant level and condition.
- Checking hoses and the radiator for leaks or cracks.
- Verifying thermostat operation.
- Testing cooling fans.
- Examining the water pump for wear or leaks.
Routine maintenance can catch small problems before they become major headaches and leave you stranded in the heat.
Trust Asian Imports in Las Vegas and Henderson, NV
At Asian Imports in Las Vegas and Henderson, NV, we know how tough summer can be on your vehicle. Our skilled technicians can inspect your entire cooling system and ensure it’s ready to handle high temperatures.
Whether you need a simple coolant flush, a new thermostat, or a complete system evaluation, we’ll help keep your car cool and reliable all season long. Don’t wait for the temperature gauge to spike — schedule a cooling system inspection with us today and drive confidently all summer.