It's never good to operate a car when it's running too hot, as excessive heat means added wear and tear on the engine, which might actually seize up from overheating. That excess heat can also cause engine oil, transmission fluid and other fluids to break down, so that they are not lubricating the vehicle's parts as they should. This, too, means more corrosion and wear on all those parts, so that they soon need repair or replacement. If your car or truck often overheats, note a few reasons why this might be happening, so you know if you can make a quick repair, or if you need to have your mechanic check out the vehicle for you.

Radiator hoses

Your engine won't get the coolant it needs if the hoses connecting that engine to the radiator are cracked, split or otherwise damaged, and allowing that coolant to drip out rather than reach the engine. Cracks and other damage can also allow air into the radiator and coolant system, and this air also blocks the delivery of coolant to the engine.

Hoses installed by the vehicle manufacturer may not be of the highest-quality rubber, so it's good to check them for damage even more often than indicated in your owner's manual, and quickly replace them when needed. Invest in higher-quality hoses that are less likely to get worn or damaged, and this can ensure your vehicle gets the coolant it needs to keep it running at optimal temperatures.

Obstructions

A vehicle's radiator is typically located at the front of the vehicle, as this part vents warm air away from the engine. This is why a car or truck will have grilles or openings in the front, rather than a solid panel. If something is blocking that opening, this can mean less hot air being vented away from the engine. For example, a collision can bend those grilles so that their openings are obstructed. If you go off-roading, your vehicle might also have leaves, twigs, bugs, and other debris blocking the grills. Add-ons and accessories such as bull bars might also be oversized for your vehicle, blocking that front grille.

You might give your vehicle a through washing along the front, and then inspect the grilles for damage or any obstructions that weren't cleaned away. You might also need to downsize your bull bars, and a smash shop can repair any grilles that are bent or damaged. This will allow hot air to be properly vented from your engine, so it stops overheating. Contact a local mechanic for more information about car radiator repair.