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We’ve all been there… we know how unnerving it can be to drive with an overheating engine. From potential fire hazards to causing additional damage, it’s extremely dangerous to drive on. Coolant leaks, damaged parts, and clogged radiators are all common causes of this problem, especially in Volvos. Our sole purpose for this article is to share the dangers of driving an overheated car, as well as provide steps on what-to-do in the moment. So without further ado, let’s get started!
Dangers Of Driving An Overheated Volvo Car
#1- Damaged gaskets & seals
Your car’s dashboard is designed to provide warning signs to the driver when there’s a problem; usually in the form of a Check Engine Light or Engine Temperature Warning Light. If those pop up and you decide to ignore them, you’re in jeopardy of damaging metal gaskets and seals. These parts are essential since they seal the combustion chamber, holding coolant and oil within their respective passageways. If they get cracked because they overheat, coolant and oil will pour out — contributing to a slew of other complications.
#2- Blown radiator hose
Aside from damaged gaskets and seals, radiator hoses are another important piece that will be effected if you choose to drive despite the repeated temperature warnings. Made of rubber, a radiator hose is entrusted with a very simple task: to facilitate coolant flow between the motor and radiator. If the engine temp rises above the permissible limit, coolant within the system will start to boil. As a result, pressure will build up and may burst — causing a blown radiator hose.
#3- Expensive engine repairs
Ultimately, it’s foolish to continue driving when your dashboard signals are warning you. Whether it’s damaged metal parts or hoses, cracked cylinder heads or engine blocks, bent connecting rods, deformed pistons, or broken valve trains, there are a plethora of complications that you might encounter if your vehicle continues to run. When in doubt, always check your dashboard signals and temperature gauge to ensure everything is working properly.
Common Causes Of Engine Overheating In Volvo Cars
#1- Coolant leak
Regulated coolant circulation, otherwise known as antifreeze, is what keeps a car’s engine temperature within an optimal range. According to Volvo makes and models, this should remain between 195 to 225 degrees Fahrenheit. Should this fluid leak out, the motor’s temperature will fluctuate erratically; potentially jumping up beyond the maximum permissible limit, putting it in risk of catching fire. From a deformed seal to a crack on the radiator hose, there are all sorts of different reasons why your Volvo car may lose coolant.
#2- Damaged component
There are an array of parts keeping your machine’s temperature contained. Water pumps, thermostats, expansion tanks, and temperature sensors are some of the key components of your Volvo’s cooling system. These parts coordinate with each other to provide smooth coolant circulation between engine and radiator. If one of these parts cease to work, your automobile will overheat.
#3- Clogged radiator
Made up of thin aluminum tubes, the radiator acts as a heat exchanger. It facilitates the transfer of thermal energy from the coolant flowing inside its tubes to the outside air. If some of them get damaged or clogged, the circulation will be disturbed. This blockage will lose coolant and cause the motor to overheat.
What To-Do If Your Volvo Overheats On The Road
Step #1- Pull Over
If you notice your vehicle’s temperature gauge reading high, pull over as soon as possible. Immediately turn off your car to cool down the engine.
Step #2- Inspect
Once it’s safe, thoroughly inspect different parts of the cooling system to evaluate what might’ve caused the overheating issue. First and foremost, inspect your coolant levels. If they’re low, top it off to see if that’s the solution. If that’s not the issue and you’re still unsure of what to check, have your car towed to our shop for a complementary diagnosis!
Fix Your Volvo’s Overheated Engine At Bruce Cox Imports
More often than not, engine overheating signifies a 
problem within the vehicle’s cooling system. However, there may be a variety of causes in addition to a cooling issue. Therefore, you should always have it checked by a trusted professional right away.
At Bruce Cox Imports, we employ ASE-certified mechanics with years of experience working on European vehicles. Our facilities in Ferndale, Lynden, and Bellingham, WA are well equipped to diagnose and address any issues that might have contributed to your Volvo’s motor malfunctions. If you notice your Volvo’s temperature gauge is reading abnormally high, call us and book an appointment today!