How to avoid overheating your car in traffic jams in the summer: practical tips

Summer, heat and traffic jams – this combination can be a real test for your car. Engine overheating is one of the most unpleasant breakdowns, which not only spoils the trip, but also threatens with expensive repairs. Fortunately, most of these situations can be avoided by following simple rules. In addition, your car can become more functional and practical if you use tuning , the accessories of which are available in our catalog in a huge assortment.

Why does the engine overheat in heat and traffic jams?

In normal driving, the incoming air flow effectively cools the radiator. In a traffic jam, this flow is absent, and the cooling system relies solely on the fan. At the same time, running the air conditioner creates an additional load on the engine, which increases the risk of overheating, especially if the cooling system is faulty or dirty.

Basic measures to prevent overheating

• Check the coolant level: Before the summer season, make sure the antifreeze level is at the correct level. Use only the recommended type of coolant.
• Radiator cleanliness: Dirt, dust, lint and insects clog the radiator areas, preventing effective heat dissipation. Regularly wash the outside of the radiator with low pressure.
• Fan performance: Make sure the radiator cooling fan turns on automatically when the temperature rises and operates without extraneous noise.
• Thermostat condition: A faulty thermostat can prevent fluid from circulating through the large cooling circuit, causing overheating.

What to do if the temperature needle has crept up?

If you notice that the engine temperature has started to rise:

1. Turn off the air conditioning: This will instantly reduce the load on the engine.
2. Use the interior heater to its full potential: Turn the heater on at full power, directing the airflow into the interior. This will help dissipate excess heat from the engine, using the heater radiator as an additional heat exchanger.
3. Stop and turn off the engine: As soon as possible, park safely on the side of the road and turn off the engine immediately. Never open the radiator cap while the engine is hot to avoid burns from steam or hot antifreeze. Allow the engine to cool completely.

By following these rules, you will significantly reduce the risk of overheating and extend the life of your car.