What Causes Car Overheating in Cars in Nigeria: What to Know and How to Fix It

You’re driving through Lagos traffic at noon, the sun blazing overhead, and suddenly your temperature gauge starts creeping toward red. Moments later, steam bursts from under your hood. Panic sets in. Sound familiar? Car overheating is a common nightmare for Nigerian drivers. But what actually causes it? And more importantly, how can you fix it?

In this blog post, we break it all down: why car overheating happens in Nigeria, how to spot the warning signs, and what you can do to stop it from ruining your ride.

Understanding the Problem: Why Car Overheating Happens

Let’s start with the basics. Your car engine generates a lot of heat while running. The job of the cooling system is to absorb and disperse this heat to keep the engine at optimal operating temperature. When the system fails, heat builds up quickly, leading to car overheating.

But Nigeria’s driving conditions – hot weather, traffic jams, and inconsistent maintenance practices – make car overheating even more likely. Here are the most common culprits.

1. Low or Leaking Coolant

Coolant (antifreeze) is what keeps your engine from getting too hot. It circulates through the engine and radiator, absorbing heat. If your coolant level is low or there’s a leak, the engine heats up fast, leading to car overheating.

In Nigeria, many drivers top off their coolant with plain water instead of a proper water-coolant mix. While it may work temporarily, plain water evaporates faster, doesn’t protect against corrosion, and can lead to rust buildup in the system.

2. Malfunctioning Radiator or Radiator Fan

The radiator helps release the heat absorbed by the coolant. But if it’s clogged, damaged, or blocked by dirt, it won’t do its job and may trigger car overheating.

Meanwhile, the radiator fan ensures airflow when the car isn’t moving. If the fan stops working (a common issue in traffic-heavy Nigerian cities), car overheating is inevitable.

3. Traffic and Heat

Nigeria’s road conditions are brutal. You might spend two hours in gridlock under the blazing sun with minimal airflow to your engine. This heat, combined with stop-and-go traffic, puts major stress on your cooling system and encourages car overheating.

4. Faulty Thermostat

The thermostat controls the flow of coolant. If it sticks in the closed position, coolant can’t circulate to the radiator. Your engine overheats, and fast.

5. Broken Water Pump

The water pump circulates coolant through the engine. When it fails, the flow stops completely. This is one of the most dangerous causes of car overheating and should be addressed immediately.

6. Worn-Out Hoses and Belts

Coolant hoses can crack or burst over time, especially in the heat. Drive belts, which power components like the water pump, can snap. Once that happens, coolant circulation is compromised, and the engine temperature skyrockets.

7. Blocked Cooling System

Using poor-quality or dirty water can lead to sediment and rust buildup in your radiator and hoses. Over time, this clogs the system and reduces its ability to cool efficiently, increasing the risk of car overheating.

Signs Your Car Is Overheating

Car overheating doesn’t always come with dramatic smoke. Watch out for these common signs:

• Temperature gauge rising into the red zone
• Steam or smoke from the bonnet
• Unusual smell (burning or sweet smell from leaking coolant)
• Reduced engine performance
• Warning lights on the dashboard

If you spot any of these signs, stop the car immediately and turn off the engine. Continuing to drive can cause serious damage, including a blown head gasket or warped engine parts.

Immediate Steps to Take If Your Car Overheats

1. Pull Over Safely

Switch off the engine and allow it to cool. Never attempt to open the radiator cap while the engine is hot – the pressurized steam can cause severe burns.

2. Check Coolant Level

After at least 30 minutes of cooling, check the coolant reservoir. If it’s low, top it up with coolant or clean water temporarily (only as a stop-gap measure).

3. Inspect for Leaks

Look under the car for any coolant puddles. A leaking hose, radiator, or water pump could be the root of the car overheating problem.

4. Check Radiator Fan

Start the car and observe if the radiator fan kicks in. If not, the fan motor, fuse, or relay could be faulty.

5. Call a Mechanic

If you’re unsure, don’t guess. Get your car to a qualified mechanic or auto service center like OttoXpress to run a full diagnostic.

How to Fix and Prevent Car Overheating

Most car overheating issues can be avoided with regular care. Here’s what to do:

A. Use the Right Coolant

Always use a recommended coolant, not just water. A proper mix of coolant and distilled water improves heat transfer, prevents corrosion, and lasts longer.

B. Flush the Radiator Regularly

Over time, dirt and rust build up inside your radiator. Schedule a radiator flush every 6–12 months, especially in dusty environments.

C. Check Belts and Hoses

Inspect belts for signs of wear or cracks. Hoses should be firm, not soft or brittle. Replace them if they show signs of age.

D. Test the Thermostat

A malfunctioning thermostat can cause frequent car overheating. A mechanic can test and replace it easily if necessary.

E. Maintain the Radiator Fan

Ensure your fan motor, fuse, and wiring are working correctly. If it only runs when the AC is on, something may be wrong with the fan switch or sensor.

F. Fix Any Leaks Immediately

Even a small coolant leak can lead to car overheating. Don’t postpone repairs. Pressure tests can help detect hidden leaks.

G. Avoid Cheap Repairs

Using substandard parts to save money often leads to bigger problems. Always go for trusted auto parts and certified technicians.

Special Tips for Driving in Nigeria

• Watch your gauge during traffic jams
• Turn off your AC if your temp gauge starts to rise
• Use a sunshade or park in the shade to reduce heat buildup when parked
• Don’t overload your vehicle, especially when driving uphill
• Service your vehicle regularly, not only when there’s a problem

Final Thoughts: Don’t Wait Till Your Engine Says Goodbye

Car overheating is preventable, and fixing it doesn’t always require a major expense. With the right maintenance routine and a bit of attention, you can keep your engine cool, even under the hot Nigerian sun.

If you need a trustworthy auto service provider, OttoXpress is always ready to help. From radiator repairs to fan replacements and coolant top-ups, we’ve got your back.

 Visit us at any of our Lagos locations:

• Ikoyi
• Western Avenue
• Babs Animashaun

Call: +234 807 769 2626
Email: [email protected] | [email protected]
Hours: Mon–Sat: 8AM–6PM | Sun: 11AM–4PM

Because your car deserves better.

Happy Car, Happy Life – OttoXpress.