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Car Overheating: Causes, Diagnosis, and Cost to Fix

Overheating quickly destroys head gaskets and warps heads. If the temp gauge climbs past normal, pull over — minutes matter.

Typical repair cost: $375–$813

Common Causes

Low coolant / leak
Hose, water pump weep, radiator, heater core, or head gasket leak.
Failed thermostat
Stuck closed — coolant doesn't circulate.
Bad water pump
Impeller failed or pump leaks.
Cooling fan / fan clutch
Fan not running at idle or low speed.
Head gasket failure
Coolant burning, white smoke, oil contamination.

How Mobile Mechanics Diagnose It

  1. Pressure test cooling system to find leaks.
  2. Verify thermostat operation with infrared temp gun.
  3. Check fan operation at idle.
  4. Block test or chemical test for head gasket combustion gases in coolant.

Repair Options & Cost Ranges

Thermostat + coolant flush
$250–$500
Common fix when stuck.
Water pump replacement
$450–$950
Includes belt and tensioner check.
Radiator replacement
$500–$1100
When core leaks or fails.
Cooling fan / clutch
$300–$700
When fan stops running.

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FAQs

Can I drive a few miles with an overheating car?

No. Continuing past the red zone risks head gasket failure and a complete engine rebuild. Pull over and call.

Is it safe to add water to a hot radiator?

Only after the engine has cooled for at least 30 minutes — adding cold water to a hot block cracks heads.