What is a common reason for engine overheating?

Insufficient coolant level is a common reason for engine overheating because the coolant is essential for regulating the temperature of the engine. The cooling system circulates coolant through the engine and radiator to absorb heat and dissipate it, maintaining an optimal operating temperature. If the coolant level is low, there may not be enough fluid to absorb and carry away the heat generated by the engine, leading to overheating.

When the engine overheats, it can cause various severe damages such as warped cylinder heads, blown head gaskets, and even complete engine failure. Therefore, maintaining the correct coolant level is critical for the health and longevity of the engine.

Other factors like a faulty air conditioning system, low oil level, or worn spark plugs may impact vehicle performance or lead to other issues, but they are not primary causes of engine overheating in the same direct manner that insufficient coolant is. The coolant system plays a central role in thermal management, making its proper maintenance vital for avoiding overheating scenarios.