Car Overheating – What’s Causing It and What You Can Do
There’s nothing more stressful for a driver than watching the temperature gauge rise dangerously while on the road. A car that overheats isn’t just an inconvenience – it’s a warning sign that something’s wrong and, if ignored, can cause serious damage to the engine.
So what causes overheating, how can you prevent it, and what should you do if it happens during your road trip? Let’s dive in.
Why is your car overheating?
The most common question drivers ask is: “My car is overheating – what’s causing it?” There are several possible reasons:
- Low or old coolant fluid
- A malfunctioning thermostat
- Broken radiator fan
- A leak in the hoses or radiator
- Clogged radiator due to rust or debris
During the Greek summer, with high temperatures and constant use of the A/C, your car is under more pressure than usual. If something isn’t working as it should in the cooling system, it won’t take long for the temperature to spike.
Car Overheating on Uphill Roads – All the Essential Steps
One of the most typical situations is when the car overheats while driving uphill. This happens because the engine works harder on inclines and air circulation around the engine is reduced at lower speeds.
Planning a mountain getaway with a rental car? Make sure your cooling system is working properly before hitting the road. At Carwiz, all cars are thoroughly inspected and well-maintained. Still, knowing how to drive smartly uphill makes a difference.
Avoid over-revving and don’t use too low of a gear unnecessarily. Shift early, keep a steady pace and don’t push the engine more than needed.
Check out: 7+1 mountain destinations ideal for road trips
The Car Overheats When the Air Conditioning Is On – What’s Causing It?
Ever noticed your car temperature rises when the A/C is on? This is common with older vehicles or smaller engines. Air conditioning puts an extra load on the engine, especially in stop-and-go traffic.
If you notice the engine temperature rising:
- Lower the A/C intensity
- Open the windows temporarily
- Slightly increase your speed to help air flow
If none of this helps, pull over safely and let the car cool down.
If you see your car is dangerously hot, here’s what to do:
- Turn on the heat inside the cabin – this pulls heat away from the engine.
- Pull over and stop the engine. Open the hood carefully (don’t touch hot surfaces) and wait for it to cool.
- Check coolant levels once the engine is cold. If it's low, top it up, but never open the radiator cap while it’s hot.
How to Avoid Overheating in the First Place
The best strategy is prevention. If you’re planning summer vacations in Greece with a rental car, choose a well-maintained vehicle from a trusted provider.
Carwiz offers a wide selection of cars suited for island road trips, city drives or mountain adventures. Whether you're picking up your vehicle from the Corfu Airport station or starting your journey in Athens, you’ll get reliable performance and peace of mind.
For more tips, see our road trip guide.
If your car starts to overheat, it’s not always a reason to panic – but it’s definitely a reason to stop and think. Whether it happens on a steep hill or with the A/C running, the key is knowing how to react.
Prepare before you drive, pick the right vehicle and stay alert. And remember: with Carwiz by your side and the right knowledge, you can enjoy safe and smooth road trips across Greece all summer long.