I am dealing with a hot engine

Tiny
RED
  • MEMBER
  • 2002 VOLKSWAGEN JETTA
  • 159,000 MILES
I am dealing with a hot engine. If driven when overheating what potential problems may occur? Thought maybe a hose was blown? Kept adding water and now it won't start.
Thursday, November 3rd, 2011 AT 1:35 AM

1 Reply

Tiny
SQM
  • MECHANIC
  • 6,383 POSTS
Hello,

There are a number of things that can happen if the vehicle gets driven while overheating. It can blow the head gasket, which will produce white smoke out of the tailpipe.
It can warp the cylinder head due to excess heat. Which if severe enough will not allow the engine to start as it will not have enough compression to start over.

Here is a guide on what to look for in case of a blow head gasket:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/head-gasket-blown-test

Overheating can also foul out the coolant temperature sensor. Which will also prevent the engine from starting.

First you need to check and find out where the coolant is leaking from.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/car-is-leaking-coolant

Please let me know your findings.
Thank you.
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Wednesday, December 29th, 2021 AT 1:17 PM

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