If your car has ever started steaming in traffic, you know how fast a normal drive can turn stressful. In DeKalb County, summer heat doesn’t mess around, and neither should your cooling system.
We see overheating issues all the time at both of our Bockman’s locations. Most of the time, they trace back to something small that could’ve been caught early. So let’s run through the basics: why it happens, what to watch for, and what you can do to stay ahead of it.
Common Reasons Cars Overheat in Summer
- Low coolant – Without enough coolant, the radiator can’t cool the engine.
- Leaks or corrosion – Even a small leak can drain coolant faster than you think.
- Old coolant – Over time it breaks down and turns into sludge.
- Clogged radiator fins – Dirt, bugs, and bent fins block airflow and trap heat.
- Faulty thermostat – If it sticks closed, your engine won’t cool down.
- Broken fan belt or bad water pump – These help circulate coolant. When they fail, overheating isn’t far behind.
- Air pockets in the system – Trapped air throws everything off.
Why Traffic Makes It Worse
At slow speeds, there’s less airflow through your radiator. If your system already has a weak spot, hot weather plus stop-and-go traffic can push it past the limit.
Signs Your Car’s Throwing a Heat Tantrum
Engines don’t have tantrums often, but when they do, it’s usually during the hottest week of the year and while you’re already running late.
Here’s how your car might be trying to tell you it’s too hot to function:
- Temp gauge creeping toward the red zone
- Dashboard lights flashing like it’s Christmas in July
- Steam or smoke curling out from under the hood
- Sweet, syrupy smell (spoiler alert: it’s coolant)
- Bubbling or ticking sounds that weren’t there yesterday
If your ride starts showing these signs, don’t wait for it to blow like an egg in a microwave.
What to Do When Your Engine Starts Boiling
Here’s your no-panic, no-wrench-needed game plan:
- Pull over somewhere safe – don’t try to tough it out to the next exit.
- Crank the heat, kill the A/C – it may be uncomfortable, but it helps pull heat from the engine.
- Turn off the engine and let it cool down.
- Do NOT pop the radiator cap while it’s hot unless you enjoy steam facials and first-degree burns.
- Still worried? Shut it down and give us a call. We’ll walk you through the next steps or get you in the shop.
How to Outsmart Summer Breakdowns
Want to avoid the drama? These quick checks can save you from a big repair bill:
- Check your coolant once a month (yes, even if the car “feels fine”).
- Flush it every 30,000 miles or as recommended.
- Give hoses and belts a once-over when checking oil or washer fluid.
- Notice a puddle under your car? Don’t assume it’s “just water.”
- Ask us to clean your radiator fins if they’re dirty or bent, they matter more than you think.
Before You Hit the Road This Summer…
Take two minutes for this “pre-trip pit stop”:
- Peek under the car for leaks.
- Make sure coolant is between the “min” and “max” lines.
- Squeeze the radiator hoses – firm is good, squishy is bad.
- Glance at the radiator fins and clean off any debris or bug buildup.
Think of it like brushing your teeth before a date. Quick. Easy. Prevents disaster.
Need Help? We’re Around.
If you’re dealing with overheating or just want a quick inspection before a long drive, give us a shout. No pressure. Just helpful advice and honest answers, same as we’ve been doing for over 60 years.
Want to set up an appointment? Click Here
Or call us:
DeKalb: 815-754-4200
Sycamore: 815-756-7413
