Does auto insurance cover damage caused by an overheated engine?

We all know that there are many things to consider when it comes to looking after our vehicles and that doing so can help with the average cost of auto insurance. Of course, we regularly check some things like the oil levels, the windshield wiper fluid, or the tire tread.

But one thing that we don’t normally think about checking is the temperature of our engine.

Unsurprisingly, when a car’s running well, the engine shouldn’t become overheated. But if it’s starting to run too hot, this can eventually lead to damage. So does auto insurance cover damage caused by an overheated engine? In this article, we will look at why an engine might be running too hot and what you can do.

Does my car insurance cover damage caused by an overheated engine?

Your auto insurance company will cover your damages if you get in an accident, but if you leave your car out in the sun all day and then drive it for hours without planning for stops, it won’t be so keen to fix the heat damage.

Does auto insurance cover engine or electrical fires? In the example of driving on a hot summer’s day, such overheating is preventable. The three best things that you can do to prevent overheating are to park your car in the shade, take regular breaks, and keep your coolant topped off.

What might lead to damage caused by an overheated engine?

Car engines get hot when they’re in use, and they’re called internal combustion engines for a reason. But even though our engines have been designed to withstand high temperatures, they still have their limits.

If you think your engine is getting too hot, pull over and open up the hood for at least 30 minutes. Make sure your coolant is topped up, and if it’s really warm, then consider carrying extra on the trip.

How to Tell if Your Engine Is at Risk of Damage Caused by an Overheated Engine

You’ll know your engine has overheated when the steam starts blowing. But do you know the two dashboard indicators that will give you ample warning before that?

The “engine temperature warning” will light if you’re running hot. When you see the little thermometer, it means it’s time to stop. Before this, you will also see the “check engine” warning. This will indicate that something’s not right, so be sure to check your coolant. It’s also important to track when to get an oil change.

If these lights have come on, and you keep on driving, your insurer isn’t going to pay out for any eventual damages.

Circumstances That Lead to Damage from an Overheated Engine

Hot weather alone doesn’t do it, although it can worsen things. If your engine is getting too hot, several things might go wrong.

You might have a loose fan belt, or the blades on your fan might be damaged. For instance, there might also be an internal leak from a blown head gasket. Or, the thermostat itself might be off, meaning the car doesn’t realize how hot it is. These issues are fixable, so you should see a mechanic at the first sign of a problem.

Final Thoughts on Insurance Covering Damage Caused by an Overheated Engine

Engines get hot, but they have their limits. If your car engine overheats, it will cause damage to the vehicle. Because this damage is preventable, your insurer will not likely want to pay. If you decide to go ahead and file, you can always log in to check the status of your auto insurance claim.

It’s your responsibility to make sure you get your car checked out regularly by a mechanic. You should be extra careful on hot days and long drives. And remember: if your dashboard warning lights flick on, it’s time to get that engine seen to.