Why Florida Cars Overheat More Often
Florida's combination of extreme heat (90°F+ for months), high humidity, and heavy stop-and-go traffic creates the perfect recipe for engine overheating. Our mobile diagnostic technicians in Fort Lauderdale and Tampa handle overheating calls almost daily during summer months.
Top 7 Causes of Engine Overheating
1. Low or Leaking Coolant
The most common cause. Coolant (antifreeze) absorbs engine heat and dissipates it through the radiator. Leaks at hoses, the water pump, radiator, or head gasket mean less coolant to do the job. Florida's heat amplifies the problem.
2. Failed Thermostat
A stuck-closed thermostat prevents coolant from flowing to the radiator. The engine heats up with nowhere for the heat to go. This is a relatively inexpensive fix ($100-$250 with our mobile service).
3. Water Pump Failure
The water pump circulates coolant through the engine. When it fails, coolant sits stagnant and temperatures skyrocket. Listen for whining noises or look for coolant leaks near the front of the engine.
4. Radiator Problems
Clogged, corroded, or damaged radiators can't dissipate heat effectively. Florida's bugs, debris, and salt air take a toll on radiator fins and cores.
5. Failed Cooling Fan
Electric cooling fans pull air through the radiator at low speeds and idle. If the fan motor, relay, or temperature sensor fails, your engine overheats in traffic — exactly the scenario that's common on I-95 through Pompano Beach or I-275 through St. Petersburg.
6. Blown Head Gasket
A blown head gasket allows coolant to leak internally, mix with oil, or enter the combustion chamber. Signs include white exhaust smoke, milky oil, and persistent overheating. This is a major repair but catching it early prevents engine replacement.
7. Clogged Coolant System
Over time, rust, scale, and debris accumulate in the cooling system. Regular coolant flushes prevent this, but many drivers skip this maintenance.
What to Do If Your Car Overheats
- Turn off the AC and turn the heater to MAX — this draws heat away from the engine
- Pull over safely as soon as possible. Do NOT keep driving.
- DO NOT open the radiator cap when the engine is hot — pressurized steam can cause severe burns
- Let the engine cool for at least 30 minutes before checking coolant levels
- Call for mobile service — driving an overheated car risks catastrophic engine damage
Prevention: Keep Your Cool in Florida
- Check coolant levels monthly — especially before summer
- Get a coolant flush every 30,000 miles or every 2 years
- Inspect belts and hoses annually — Florida heat degrades rubber faster
- Watch your temperature gauge — don't ignore it creeping above normal
- Maintain your AC system — a properly working AC system actually shares some components with your cooling system
Mobile Overheating Diagnosis & Repair
If your car has overheated or your temperature gauge is running high, don't risk driving to a shop. Our mobile diagnostic service comes to you anywhere in Fort Lauderdale, Tampa, and surrounding areas including Plantation, Davie, Wesley Chapel, and Riverview.
Call (954) 204-0658 — available 24/7 for emergencies.