FAQs

Air conditioning places extra load on the engine and cooling system, but it should not cause a properly functioning car to overheat. If the temperature rises whenever the air conditioning is used, the system may already be struggling with a cooling fan, radiator or coolant-flow problem.

Only in an emergency and only once the engine has cooled completely. The correct manufacturer-approved coolant mixture should be used wherever possible. Adding plain water may help temporarily, but it does not provide the same corrosion, boiling and freezing protection.

Cold air from the heater while the engine temperature is rising can indicate that hot coolant is not circulating through the heater matrix properly. This may be caused by low coolant, trapped air or a circulation problem.

Yes. Engine oil helps reduce friction and carries some heat away from moving components. A dangerously low oil level can increase friction and temperature, although overheating is more commonly linked to the cooling system.