If you are experiencing the frustrating problem of your vehicle overheating, you’re not alone. One of the most common issues that Jeep owners face is overheating. Whether cruising down the highway or navigating rocky terrain, an overheating engine can quickly put a damper on your driving experience.
The Jeep overheating is caused by various factors, ranging from a bad radiator, coolant leakage, and a faulty thermostat to a blown head gasket, faulty heater core, airlock formation, and a defective temperature gauge. Promptly addressing these issues can help prevent the Jeep from overheating.
In this article, I’ll explore why Jeep overheats and provide you with the fixes you need to know to keep your vehicle running smoothly. So, if you’ve been struggling with an overheating Jeep, read on to find out how you can get back on the road in no time.
Symptoms of the Jeep Overheating:
1. Fluctuating Gauge:
It is often seen that the gauge of the vehicle gets malfunctions. When this happens, the gauge constantly fluctuates; at times, it shows the engine’s high temperature, while at other times, it shows the normal engine temperature.
2. Annoying Noisy Engine:
When the engine temperature of the Jeep starts to exceed normal, the engine becomes loud. In addition, it sometimes starts producing abnormal nagging sounds that might annoy the driver.
This is a big sign that the engine has exceeded its normal temperature limit or is about to reach the higher side of the temperature.
Why is My Jeep Overheating?
There are certain reasons for the overheating of the Jeep engine that can cause temperature issues. These problems include low coolant levels, a stuck thermostat, a bad cap of radiator, or a malfunctioned cooling system.
All these problems collectively move towards the failure of the engine if they are not rectified and fixed on time.
Here I will elaborate the most common reasons that cause the sudden rise in temperature of the Jeep and how they should be fixed so that the vehicle can work at its confined temperature range.
1. Bad Radiator:
The radiator is an essential component of the cooling system. Its primary function is to keep the coolant flowing through the engine to maintain the normal temperature.
1.1. Bad Radiator Cap:
When the radiator cap is broken or not shut, it can prevent the coolant from flowing correctly through the cooling system.
As a result, the engine’s temperature can rise beyond the normal range, causing the Jeep to overheat.
1.2. Bad Radiator Fan:
Another factor that can cause a Jeep to overheat is a defective radiator fan. The fan pulls air through the radiator to cool the engine.
Unfortunately, over time, the fan can wear out or break down, causing it to become ineffective in cooling the engine. When this happens, the engine will start overheating, and the Jeep will run beyond the normal temperature range.
1.3. Radiator Leak:
Radiator leaks can also cause a Jeep to overheat. A radiator leak can occur due to normal wear and tear or a puncture. When the radiator leaks, it can result in a loss of coolant fluid, which can cause the engine to overheat.
A small leak may be fixed by adding radiator leak sealant. However, this is only a temporary fix, and the radiator will need to be replaced eventually.
1.4. Bad Radiator Fan Clutch:
A lousy radiator fan clutch is another common cause of overheating in Jeeps. The fan clutch controls the fan’s speed, essential for maintaining the engine’s temperature.
When the fan clutch goes bad, it can cause the fan to run indefinitely, leading to engine noise and overheating.
1.5. Clogged Radiator:
Lastly, a clogged radiator can cause a Jeep to overheat. A clogged radiator can occur due to debris, dirt, and grime buildup over time.
When this happens, the coolant cannot flow through the radiator correctly, causing the engine to overheat.
How to Fix:
- Method 1: If the radiator leaks, it can often be repaired by sealing the leak or replacing the damaged component. This may involve replacing a hose, a gasket, or a radiator cap. For more severe leaks, the radiator may need to be replaced entirely.
- Method 2: If the radiator is clogged, it can be flushed to remove any buildup of debris or sediment. This involves draining the radiator and using a flushing solution to break up and remove blockages. The system is then refilled with fresh coolant.
- Method 3: Corrosion can also be problematic in radiators, particularly older vehicles. Sometimes, a corrosion inhibitor can be added to the coolant to slow down the corrosion process. However, if the corrosion is severe, the radiator may need to be replaced.
Regular cooling system maintenance can help prevent radiator problems and overheating in a Jeep. This includes checking the coolant level regularly, inspecting the radiator for signs of damage or corrosion, and flushing the system periodically to remove any debris buildup.
2. Lack/Leakage of Transmission Fluid:
Jeep engines rely on fluid to lubricate the various components, preventing metal-to-metal contact and reducing friction, which can generate excessive heat. Without enough fluid, the engine can overheat, resulting in significant damage.
The symptoms of low fluid levels in your Jeep can include a burning oil smell, knocking noises coming from the engine, less fuel efficiency, and the oil light on the dashboard turning ON. These warning signs should not be ignored and require immediate attention.
How to Fix:
To fix this issue, the first step is to identify the root cause of the problem.
To check whether your Jeep is low on fluid, use the dipstick to check the fluid level. If the level is low, you will need to perform an fluid change to replenish the oil levels.
A super helpful Coolant Funnel Kit is available on Amazon to check the coolant level.
You should also check for any leaks in the reservoir, which can cause the fluid levels to drop.
Once diagnosed, you can follow the steps below to fix the issue:
- STEP 1: The most common cause of overheating due to a lack of fluid or oil is a leak in the engine’s cooling system or oil system. Various factors, such as worn-out gaskets, cracked hoses, or damaged seals, can cause these leaks.
- STEP 2: Once the cause of the leak has been identified, it’s essential to fix it as soon as possible. Depending on the severity of the leak, replacing damaged parts, such as gaskets or hoses, may be necessary. Sometimes, the entire cooling or oil system may need to be flushed and replaced.
- STEP 3: Besides fixing the leak, it’s also essential to check the fluid levels regularly and top them up as needed. This will help prevent future overheating and ensure that the engine is always adequately lubricated.
I recommend using Combustion Leak Test Kit for leakage testing, readily available on Amazon.
If the engine has already overheated due to a lack of fluid or oil, it’s essential to turn off the vehicle immediately and let it cool down completely. Attempting to drive an overheated vehicle can cause severe and permanent damage to the engine.
3. Fault in the Thermostat:
One of the most common reasons for Jeep overheating is a fault in the thermostat. As mentioned earlier, the thermostat regulates the engine's coolant flow. When the engine is cold (idle or just started), the thermostat stays in the closed position.
However, when it reaches a specific temperature (usually above 180 degrees Fahrenheit), it opens up to allow the coolant to flow to the radiator. Therefore, if the thermostat fails or becomes stuck, it can cause the engine to overheat.
So, how do you know if your Jeep’s thermostat is faulty? There are a few symptoms to look out for, including:
- Intransient temperature readings in the vehicle
- Increase in consumption of fuel
- Poor performance of the engine
- The engine produced a strange noise
Thermostats can also fail due to excess usage and aging. Old thermostats are often stuck in which coolant cannot reach the radiator.
It causes the engine to overheat and cross the limits of temperature ranges. The main culprit is the leaking coolant and malfunctioned radiator fan, which can overheat the vehicle.
How to Fix:
Replacing the faulty thermostat with a new one is recommended to avoid inconvenience. You can change the thermostat easily by allowing the engine to cool down first.
It is better not to reuse the gaskets and carefully scrape down the gasket residues from the component.
4. Blown Head Gasket:
A blown head gasket is a serious issue that can cause a Jeep to overheat. The head gasket is a vital component that seals the engine cylinders and prevents coolant and oil from mixing with each other.
Coolant can leak into the combustion chamber when a head gasket fails and cause the engine to overheat.
One of the most common symptoms of a blown head gasket in a Jeep is white smoke from the exhaust pipe. This is due to the leakage of the coolant into the combustion chamber and being burnt off.
A loss of power or acceleration can also be a sign of a blown head gasket. This is due to a loss of compression in the engine cylinders, which can reduce the engine’s overall performance.
Jeep owners' problems with blown head gaskets are prevalent. For example, one Jeep owner reported that his Jeep's engine began to misfire and lose power shortly after noticing white smoke from the exhaust pipe. They took the Jeep to a mechanic who determined that the head gasket had blown and needed to be replaced.
Another owner reported experiencing consistent overheating and coolant loss, which was also due to a blown head gasket.
How to Fix:
If you suspect your Jeep’s head gasket may be blown, taking it to a professional mechanic as soon as possible is essential.
Attempting to drive a vehicle with a blown head gasket can cause severe and permanent damage to the engine.
A professional mechanic will have the necessary experience and tools to diagnose the issue and replace the head gasket accurately.
5. Problems with Heater Core:
First, let me define what a heater core is. In simple terms, a small radiator inside your Jeep’s dashboard is responsible for heating the cabin.
When you turn on the heater, it circulates the hot coolant from the engine through the heater core, which then warms up the air that blows into the cabin.
Why Does a Heater Core Malfunction?
Over time, the heater core can develop several issues that prevent it from functioning correctly. The most common problem is a leak, which can lead to low coolant levels and, in turn, cause the engine to overheat.
Obstructions, such as debris or air bubbles, can also prevent coolant from flowing through the heater core, which can cause the cabin to remain cold even when the engine is running hot.
What are the Symptoms of a Clogged Heater Core?
If your Jeep’s heater core is clogged or malfunctioning, you may notice several symptoms, including:
- A foggy interior
- Coolant loss
- A sweet smell in the cabin (similar to maple syrup)
- The engine running hot, but the cabin interior remaining cold
If you notice any of these symptoms, having your Jeep inspected by a professional mechanic as soon as possible is essential. Ignoring the problem can lead to severe engine damage and costly repairs.
How to Fix:
To prevent heater core problems and ensure your Jeep runs smoothly, following the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule is essential.
This includes changing the coolant at regular intervals, which helps prevent corrosion and buildup inside the heater core.
Additionally, be on the lookout for signs of corrosion or sludge, which can be indications that the coolant is contaminated and needs to be flushed.
6. Airlock Formation:
Airlock in the cooling system occurs when air pockets or airlocks form inside the Jeep’s cooling system, preventing proper coolant circulation.
The cooling system is designed to maintain a specific pressure level to ensure that the coolant circulates properly and the engine remains cool.
However, if there is air in the system, it can disrupt the pressure and cause overheating.
One of the leading causes of the airlock in the cooling system is driving around with low coolant levels. When there is not enough coolant in the system, the water pump pumps air into the system, causing air pockets. This, in turn, hinders the proper circulation of coolant and exacerbates engine overheating.
Another culprit of the airlock is failing to maintain pressure in the cooling system. The cooling system is a closed, pressurized system, which means that maintaining pressure is crucial.
Symptoms of the airlock in the cooling system include a high-temperature gauge reading, steam under the hood, and coolant leaks.
If you notice any of these signs, it is crucial to address the issue immediately to avoid severe engine damage.
How to Fix:
There are a couple of easy solutions to fix the issue.
Solution 1- Prefill the thermostat before installing:
Here let me share the steps below:
- STEP 1: Remove the thermostat housing and fill it with coolant until it is full.
- STEP 2: Install the thermostat and top off the coolant as needed. This will ensure no air is trapped inside the cooling system and will help prevent overheating.
Solution 2- Bleed the cooling system:
To do this, you can check the steps below:
- STEP 1: Fill the radiator with coolant and turn the engine on.
- STEP 2: Allow the engine to run for a few minutes, then turn it off.
- STEP 3: Wait for the engine to cool.
- STEP 4: Check the coolant level after the engine gets cool down.
- STEP 5: If it is low, add more coolant, and repeat the process until the coolant level stabilizes.
7. Malfunctioned Temperature Gauge:
A malfunctioned temperature gauge could cause overheating issues in the Jeep, so the driver wouldn’t know the engine temperature while driving.
In case of any malfunction, the engine would start overheating, and the gauge would not indicate it. Eventually, the driver would learn about it once the engine has turned itself off or when any other damage has been done to the engine.
How to Fix:
It is essential to note the fluctuations of the temperature gauge; in case of any abnormal fluctuations, the temperature gauge must be checked and fixed to avoid bad circumstances.
You can get your temperature gauge fixed by seeking help from a certified mechanic or an automobile expert.
What Happens When the Jeep Engine Overheats?
When a Jeep engine overheats, it can lead to a series of issues that can cause the vehicle to perform poorly or even fail.
The engine’s cooling system is critical to its proper function, and an overheated engine can cause the cooling system to fail.
When an engine overheats, it can cause the engine oil to boil, leading to many problems. For instance, the boiling of the engine oil can cause abnormal wear and tear on the engine components, eventually leading to engine failure.
Additionally, the coolant in the cooling system can evaporate, further worsening the situation.
It is important to note that an overheated engine can also cause damage to other components of the vehicle.
For example, the cylinder head can warp or crack, which can cause problems with the engine’s compression and lead to poor performance. Similarly, the engine block can also crack, leading to oil leaks and further damage.
If you notice that your Jeep’s engine is overheating, taking immediate action is essential to avoid further damage. You should stop driving the vehicle and let the engine cool down.
It is also recommended that you get your vehicle checked by a certified mechanic to determine the root cause of the problem and prevent any potential inconvenience. Remember, taking care of your vehicle’s engine can save you a lot of trouble in the long run.
What Should I Do When the Jeep Overheats?
The most common mistake that people often make when the engine of the Jeep overheats is that they keep driving their vehicle like normal. This mistake leads to engine failure.
Therefore, it is important that whenever the Jeep displays a warning that might be caused due to overheating of the engine, the vehicle should be immediately stopped.
The vehicle should not be turned off. Instead, the engine should be kept idle for some time until the temperature returns to its normal value. Afterward, the engine may be turned off to allow the car to cool completely, and then it should be taken to a certified mechanic to eradicate the issue.
Can I Drive My Jeep When It’s Overheated?
It is not recommended to drive a Jeep when it’s running hot. Driving a Jeep in this condition can cause severe engine damage and even complete engine failure.
When a Jeep is running hot, it means that the engine is operating at a higher temperature than what is considered safe. This can happen due to several reasons, as mentioned above, such as low coolant levels, a malfunctioning thermostat, a clogged radiator, or a faulty water pump.
If you continue to drive your Jeep while running hot, the high temperature can cause the engine to warp or crack, resulting in a costly repair bill. Additionally, the engine may also seize up, leaving you stranded on the side of the road.
Do’s and Don’ts When Jeep Overheats:
Do's While Jeep Overheats | Don'ts While Jeep Overheats |
It is recommended to stop driving when you feel that your Jeep is over-heated. | It is recommended not to push the jeep to the service station when the engine overheats. |
If your engine suddenly overheats during driving, it is better to stop the vehicle and make quick and easy fixes to deal with this issue. | It is recommended not to pop the hood as it might give you some burn injuries from the heat coming out of the smoke and hot steam. |
Keep some diagnostic scanning tools to deal with the overheating issue in your Jeep, such as emission analyzers, power circuit probes, anti-freezing funnel, and pressure testers for the cooling system. | It is better not to pour cold water into the radiator when it is extremely hot. It will damage the radiator and can cause temperature-induced damage to it. |
It is better to keep water and extra coolant in your vehicle and add it to your engine when it overheats. | It is better to avoid leaving this issue of sudden temperature rise unattended. |
Regularly flush your vehicle's coolants to ensure there are no blockages or contamination in the coolant. |
How Can I Diagnose the Jeep Overheating Easily?
If you suspect your Jeep is overheating, diagnosing the issue quickly and accurately is essential to avoid severe damage to your vehicle.
Here are some steps you can take to diagnose the overheating issue in your Jeep:
STEP 1- Check the Fluid Levels:
It is essential to always keep an eye on your vehicle’s fluid levels, including the coolant and oil levels. If the coolant level is low, it can cause the engine to overheat.
Low oil levels can cause the engine to overheat due to increased friction. So, start by checking the coolant and oil levels and topping them up if necessary.
STEP 2- Pressure Test the System:
A radiator cap tester can pressure test the system and check for any external or internal leaks in the vehicle. You can pressurize the system and then check for any pressure drop, which may indicate a leak.
STEP 3- Check the Radiator Hose:
Regularly check the radiator hose to feel any hardness or fullness. If the hose feels too hard, it may indicate a blockage in the coolant system, which can cause overheating.
STEP 4- Check the Radiator Fan:
The radiator fan helps to cool the engine by pulling air through the radiator. However, if the fan is not working correctly, it can cause the engine to overheat.
You can check the fan by turning on the air conditioning and observing if the fan is running.
STEP 5- Monitor the Temperature Gauge:
Start the engine with full engine coolant and monitor the temperature gauge. The drive will be safe if the temperature gauge does not reach the red mark.
However, if the gauge reaches the red mark, it is better to wait 15 minutes before starting the engine again.
Overall, diagnosing an overheating Jeep is crucial to avoid severe damage to your vehicle. Following these steps, you can easily diagnose the issue and take appropriate actions to fix the problem.
It is always recommended to seek professional help if you are not confident diagnosing or fixing the issue.
Final Thought:
Overheating is a common problem that Jeep owners experience and can be caused by various issues. However, addressing the problem as soon as possible is crucial to avoid further damage.
Regular maintenance checks can help detect problems early on and prevent irreversible harm to your Jeep. With the fixes mentioned in this article, you can keep your Jeep running smoothly and enjoy your off-road adventures without any worries.
Also Read:
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Jeep 2.0 Turbo: Common Problems to Watch Out For
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What is the normal temperature range fixed for a Jeep?
The normal temperature range for the Jeep is 195-220 F, equal to 90 degrees Celsius. Anything above or below this temperature range can cause problems for the rider and vehicle.
Are 230 degrees considered a hot temperature for the working of the engine?
The normal temperature range for working the engine is 195-220 degrees, so 230 degrees is beyond the normal temperature.
Which temperature range is considered too hot for the engine?
A temperature beyond 190-220 degrees is considered hot for the engine. Several factors impact the temperature and working of vehicles, like poor air conditioning, towing, and idling capacities. In addition, the radiator and coolant fluids of the vehicle beyond this limit are prone to burn.
How can a person check that the vehicle is low on its coolant levels?
You can check the coolant levels by locating the overflow bottle at the side of the engine compartment. It is recommended to check the level markers, which should be imprinted on the side of the bottle. It will help you indicate whether the fluid is low or high.
What are the reasons behind the overheating of Jeep?
There are various which lead to overheating in Jeeps. These reasons include the leaking of coolant from the hose, radiator, or pump, the issue with the radiator fan, and the failure to work the thermostat.
Is 90 degrees Celsius temperature considered a hot one for the engine of Jeep?
The normal engine operating temperature is about 75-105 degrees Celsius for the vehicle. When the temperature limit reaches 80-90 degrees, the thermostat in the vehicle allows the cooling fluid to flow toward the other cooling circuit. The radiator fan can cool the engine if the temperature is raised.
What are some of the symptoms which indicate the overheating of the vehicle?
Five signs can let you know that the engine is overheating. These signs are:
- The issue with the temperature gauge
- The blinking of the dashboard light
- Production of clanking noise from the vehicle
- Presence of steam or smoke from the vehicle
- Production of unusual smell from engine
This is Surya. I am an experienced off-roader. I have been off-roading for many years across several terrains. I am passionate about 4×4 driving and want to share my knowledge and experience with others.
My goal is to provide you with the most comprehensive and unbiased information about off-roading.
I curated this article through my personal experience and expertise, and I hope it helps you with what you are looking for.