Car overheating in traffic is one of the most common problems faced by drivers in India. The vehicle runs perfectly fine on highways, but the moment it gets stuck in traffic or waits at a signal, the temperature needle starts to rise.
This post explains why your car overheats in traffic, outlines the real causes, and provides simple fixes anyone can try. You’ll also discover a smart way to protect your car from heat damage using Neodrift’s water-resistant car covers.
Why Cars Overheat in Traffic: The Real Causes
1. Low Coolant Level
(low coolant overheating)
One of the first things to check when your car overheats in traffic is the coolant level. Many drivers ignore coolant maintenance, but once the level drops below the minimum mark, the engine loses its ability to stay cool—especially when idling.
How to check:
-
Look at the coolant reservoir.
-
Ensure the level is between MIN and MAX.
-
Never open the radiator cap when the engine is hot.
If the coolant is low, top it up and have the system checked for leaks.
2. Radiator Fan Not Working
(radiator fan not working in traffic)
When the car is in motion, natural airflow cools the radiator. But in traffic, the radiator fan is the only cooling source.
If the fan isn’t working—due to a blown fuse, faulty relay, or motor issue—engine overheating in city driving becomes unavoidable.
Quick check:
-
Turn on the AC and listen for the fan.
-
If it doesn’t start, check the “Fan Low” fuse in the fuse box.
A faulty radiator fan is one of the biggest reasons cars overheat while idling.
3. Clogged or Dirty Radiator
(clogged radiator fix)
Indian roads come with dust, mud, insects, and plastic debris. Over time, these can clog the radiator fins, reducing airflow and cooling efficiency.
This is why your car stays fine on highways (where airflow is strong) but overheats in traffic—exactly what many drivers experience.
Fix:
-
Clean the radiator from the front using mild water pressure.
-
Do not use a high-pressure washer directly on the fins.
This simple cleaning trick solves more problems than most people realize.
4. Thermostat Valve Issues
(overheating problem at thermostat)
A stuck thermostat valve prevents coolant from circulating properly. This issue becomes more noticeable in slow traffic, where heat builds up quickly.
If your car overheats randomly—sometimes in traffic, other times even on short drives—this could be the hidden culprit.
5. Weak Water Pump
(overheating water pump problem)
The water pump circulates coolant through the engine and radiator. If it weakens, coolant won’t circulate properly at low RPMs, causing engine overheating in traffic jams.
Common symptoms:
-
Grinding noise from the engine area
-
Coolant leakage near the water pump
-
Temperature rising only at low speeds
Car Overheating: Simple Fixes
Here are some easy and practical steps every Indian driver should try before visiting a mechanic:
✔ Check the coolant level
✔ Check the radiator fan and its fuse
✔ Clean the radiator from the outside with water
✔ Ensure there are no coolant leaks
✔ Check the condition of the radiator cap
✔ Inspect the thermostat and water pump if overheating continues
These steps are based on real maintenance practices followed by experienced mechanics.
Protect Your Car From Heat Damage: Recommended for Indian Roads
Your engine isn’t the only part suffering in the Indian climate. Scorching sun, dust, rain, and heat damage the car’s body, windshield, headlights, and rubber seals.
This is where Neodrift’s water-resistant, heat-protective car covers prove extremely helpful.
Why Neodrift Car Cover Is Worth It:
-
Heat-resistant material protects against intense sunlight.
-
Water resistant design shields the car during rain and moisture.
-
Dustproof fabric helps keep the radiator area cleaner for longer.
-
Snug fit ensures it doesn’t fly away in windy conditions.
If you want to keep your car cooler, cleaner, and lasting longer, a Neodrift car cover is one of the simplest and smartest investments.
Conclusion
Most cars overheat in traffic due to small but overlooked issues like low coolant, a dirty radiator, or a non-working fan. These are things you can easily check at home and prevent major engine damage.
Understanding why your car overheats in traffic jams—and fixing it early—not only saves money but also keeps you safe on the road.
And to protect your car from heat, dust, and rain while parked, switching to a Neodrift water-resistant car cover can make a noticeable difference.
Want more updates like this?
Keep checking Neodrift.in to stay updated on the latest in cars, gear, and smart upgrades for Indian roads.