If you’ve ever sat in Lagos traffic watching your temperature gauge climb, you’re not alone. Engine overheating is a daily struggle for drivers navigating through Third Mainland Bridge, Lekki-Epe Expressway, or even a simple run through Ikeja during rush hour. And when your dashboard starts flashing red or steam escapes from the bonnet, panic kicks in — but what causes it, and how do you fix it?

🚗 Understanding Why Engines Overheat

In a nutshell, your car’s engine produces heat as it runs. It relies on a cooling system (radiator, coolant, fan, thermostat) to keep things within safe temperature levels. But in Lagos traffic, that system is under pressure — literally.

You’re sitting still or barely moving for long periods. That means little to no airflow through the radiator. The cooling fan is now doing all the work, and if it’s faulty or your coolant is low, heat builds up fast. Mix that with scorching temperatures outside and heavy engine load (especially with the A/C on), and you’ve got a recipe for overheating.

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🔧 Top Reasons Why Cars Overheat in Nigerian Cities

1. Low Coolant/Leaking Radiator – Check coolant levels weekly and refill if necessary.
2. Weak or Damaged Radiator Fan – It’s the only airflow source when the car is stationary.
3. Blocked Radiator Vents – Dust, debris, or poor maintenance can clog things up.
4. Faulty Thermostat – If it’s stuck, it can stop coolant from circulating.
5. Bad Traffic Habits – Riding the clutch, revving constantly, or overloading the car contributes too.

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🛠️ How to Fix It (Before It Becomes a Real Problem)

Here are some practical, Nigerian-road-tested ways to stay ahead of overheating:

• Check Your Coolant Weekly
  Pop the bonnet every Sunday or before a long trip. Coolant should be between the min and max mark. Don’t wait for it to hit “empty.”
• Kill the A/C When in Traffic
  Yes, we know it’s hot. But your A/C puts extra stress on your engine in stop-and-go traffic. Rolling down your windows may help your engine catch its breath.
• Shift to Neutral at Long Stops
  When stuck in hold-up for 10+ minutes, shift to neutral. It reduces strain on your engine and allows it to cool slightly.
• Flush the Radiator Every 6 Months
  Especially in dusty states like Kaduna or Abuja, clogged radiators are common. Get your mechanic to flush the system — it’s cheap insurance.
• Use Water As a Last Resort, Not a Habit
  Yes, water works in emergencies. But it lacks anti-rust protection. Always replace it with proper coolant after a breakdown.

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🧯 What to Do If It Overheats on the Road

1. Turn off the A/C immediately
2. Pull over safely
3. Turn off the engine
4. Wait at least 20 minutes before opening the bonnet
5. Never open the radiator cap while it’s hot
6. Add coolant or clean water slowly once the engine has cooled

Bonus tip: Keep a small bottle of coolant and a rag in your boot. It’s saved many drivers in unexpected situations.

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✅ Final Thoughts

Driving in Nigeria is already an extreme sport. Don’t let a preventable engine issue catch you off guard. With regular maintenance, smarter habits in traffic, and a better understanding of how your engine works, you’ll avoid overheating—and expensive repairs.

Have you experienced overheating recently? Share your story in the comments below or tag us on Instagram @zero2sixtyshow. Let’s help more drivers stay cool on the road. 🛞🔥.