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Volkswagen Van Service – Engine Overheating

If you notice that your Volkswagen van is overheating, stopping safely should be your first priority. While the problem can be due to many factors, running an overheated engine will lead to a major breakdown. You could end up with a seized engine, a cracked engine block or a cracked cylinder head, which will result in expensive repairs.

What To Do If Your Van Or Car Overheats

If you notice the engine temperature moving towards the red zone, this is what you should do.

1. Switch off the a/c.

2. Reduce speed and engine power to the minimum and look for a safe parking spot.

3. After parking safely, switch off the engine, but keep the ignition key in the ON position. This keeps the fans running and it helps cool the engine faster.

4. Make sure that the compressor of the cooling system is turned off. Open the windows. Turn the air vents to the outside. Put the fan in exhaust mode. Move the a/c dial to the heater mode and increase fan speed to the maximum. The HVAC system uses engine heat to warm the cabin. So, it will take heat away from the engine and help cool it down.

5. Step out and take a look at the bonnet. If steam is coming from the top or sides of the bonnet, stay away. It’s too hot to handle. Wait until it cools down.

6. Open the bonnet carefully when it is safe to do so. This increases air circulation in the engine compartment and helps cool the engine faster.

7. Once the engine has cooled down, drive very slowly to the nearest garage. If you notice that the engine temperature is rising quickly, stop and call for help. You may have to get the van towed to a garage.

Why Does An Engine Overheat

Several problems can cause your engine to overheat. It could be a blown head gasket or a fault with the cooling system. Here are some possible causes.

Coolant Leak
For effective functioning of the cooling system, the right coolant at the required level is necessary. A leakage is likely if the coolant level is low. Topping up the coolant is a temporary fix. The solution is to find and fix the leak.

Clogged Or Blocked Radiator
Dirt, leaves and other road debris can blow into the radiator and get lodged in the fins. This prevents proper airflow and the coolant will not be able to transfer heat efficiently. The solution is to remove the debris and clean the radiator. Radiator can also be blocked internally due to rust. This prevents the coolant from circulating and results in overheating.

Cooling Fan Failure
The cooling fan sits behind the radiator. It ensures good airflow through the radiator even at low speeds and allows the coolant to dissipate heat easily. If the fan is faulty, you have to get it replaced.

Thermostat Problems
The thermostat determines the engine temperature and controls the operation of the cooling system. It sits between the engine and the radiator. A bad thermostat will not be able to gauge engine temperature and will prevent the coolant from getting into the radiator. When the thermostat has gone bad, the engine tends to overheat quickly.

Coolant Pump Failure
The coolant pump circulates the coolant through the engine and the radiator. If it fails, the entire cooling system fails. If the pump has failed, replacement is the best option.

Blown Head Gasket
The head gasket ensures good sealing between the engine block and the cylinder head. It has a finite life and must be replaced when its condition deteriorates. Leaks are the first sign that the gasket is going bad. Using a worn gasket can cause it to blow or fail completely. Repair involves replacing the head gasket and repairing any associated problems.

How to prevent engine overheating

Engine overheating is rare in vans that are serviced regularly. If you get your van serviced at the recommended intervals, problems that lead to overheating are likely to be detected and fixed long before they become critical.

For Volkswagen van service or repairs in Manchester, contact the Volksmaster Van Centre at Oldham. We are Volkswagen specialists offering a personal and friendly service. We have highly qualified technicians ready to provide servicing or repairs at main dealer level or better. Why use the main dealer when you can get the same quality service or better for less? View our van servicing prices.

Arranging Your Service

Drop your car off
Simply drop your car off with us between 8am and 10am and in most cases your vehicle will be ready for collection the same day between 3.30 and 5.30. Outside these hours you are welcome to park.

Wait with your car
Most servicing and repair work can be done while you wait. If this is your preference we have a superb waiting area equipped with free hot and cold drinks and a interesting viewing area where you can watch our trained technicians working on your vehicle.

Courtesy car
If your vehicle needs to stay with us for 1 day or longer then you are able to pre-book one of our courtesy vehicles to keep you mobile.

Pick up / drop off
The ultimate hassle free solution; one of our drivers will arrange to collect your vehicle from your home or place of work at a pre-arranged time and then return your vehicle when the work is complete. Our service advisors will contact you when the vehicle arrives on site during the day to discuss the progress of the work and then advise you of the time you can expect your vehicle back. Contact our service advisors for more details.

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Volkswagen Van Service – Engine Overheating

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