The water pump is the heart of the cooling system and is responsible for circulating coolant through the engine. The bearings inside the pump can wear out over time, and the extra strain of a heatwave can be the final straw.
When starting the engine, you should listen for a high-pitched whining or grinding sound from the front. This is a classic sign that the water pump's bearings are failing and that it needs to be inspected by a professional immediately to avoid a complete
The fuel in your tank helps to cool your vehicle's fuel pump. The pump is an electric motor that generates heat and relies on being submerged in petrol or diesel to stay cool.
When running the tank close to empty in extreme heat, the fuel pump can overheat, strain, and potentially fail. To prevent this, keep your fuel level above halfway during the heatwave, especially on long journeys.
The thermostat is a valve that controls the flow of coolant, staying closed when the engine is cold and opening as it warms up. If it gets stuck in the closed position, it will prevent coolant from circulating to the radiator, causing the engine to overheat very quickly.
A key symptom is the temperature gauge on your dashboard shooting from cold to hot in a matter of minutes after starting your drive. If you notice this, pull over safely and call for assistance, as driving any further could cause severe engine damage.
A spokeperson for the company explained: "In a sustained heatwave, the real culprits for overheating are often smaller, overlooked components that can't cope with the extra strain.
"A faulty radiator cap or a clogged radiator that can't dissipate heat effectively can cause major problems and a few simple checks can be the difference between a smooth journey and a roadside breakdown."
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