Car Overheating Diagnostics & Cooling System Repairs in Thanet

Is Your Engine Gone Bad? 

Is Your Car Overheating? Get Fast, Accurate Diagnostics Today

An overheating engine is one of the most serious warning signs your vehicle can give you.
Whether your temperature gauge is rising, steam is coming from under the bonnet, or you smell burning coolant, it’s essential to get the problem diagnosed immediately before costly damage occurs.

At PPC Garage, located at 3 Crossways Business Park, Canterbury Road, Birchington, we provide expert overheating diagnostics and cooling system repairs for drivers across Thanet, Margate, Ramsgate, Westgate, Broadstairs, Herne Bay, and Canterbury.

Drop by for a free visual check, or call us to book a full diagnostic session.

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📍 Canterbury Rd, Birchington CT7 0AA

Common Causes of Car Overheating

Engine overheating can be caused by anything from a minor leak to a failing component deep within the cooling system. Our technicians see these issues regularly:• Coolant LeakLow coolant levels from hoses, clamps, or radiator leaks reduce the system’s ability to cool effectively.• Faulty ThermostatA stuck thermostat prevents coolant from circulating, causing rapid temperature rise.• Water Pump FailureThe pump circulates coolant — when it fails, overheating happens fast.• Radiator Blockage or DamageA clogged, corroded, or damaged radiator will restrict cooling performance.• Cooling Fan IssuesElectric fans or sensors that stop working can cause overheating in traffic or when idling.• Head Gasket FailureCombustion gases enter the cooling system, creating pressure and overheating.
Common Causes of Car Overheating

Warning Signs Your Car Is About to Overheat

Warning Signs Your Car Is About to Overheat

If you notice any of these symptoms, stop driving as soon as it’s safe and visit us at PPC Garage:

  • Temperature gauge rising higher than normal

  • Steam or white smoke from the bonnet

  • Coolant smell inside or outside the vehicle

  • Coolant levels dropping frequently

  • Heater blowing cold air

  • Dashboard warning light (temperature or engine light)

Early diagnosis prevents further internal damage such as warped cylinder heads or blown gaskets.

Our Cooling System Diagnostic Process

At PPC Garage, we don’t just top up coolant — we find the exact cause of the overheating.
Here’s how we approach every job:

  1. Initial symptom discussion

  2. Temperature and pressure testing

  3. Radiator and hose inspection

  4. Cooling fan and sensor testing

  5. Thermostat and water pump evaluation

  6. Block test for head gasket leaks (if needed)

  7. System flush or component replacement

Once we identify the cause, we explain your repair options clearly and provide an itemised quote.

Our Cooling System Diagnostic Process

Cooling System Repairs We Offer

Cooling System Repairs We Offer

We perform all major overheating-related repairs, including:

  • Thermostat replacement

  • Radiator repair or replacement

  • Cooling system flush

  • Water pump replacement

  • Fan motor and relay repair

  • Coolant pressure leak test & repair

  • Head gasket testing and diagnosis

Every repair is completed with high-quality parts and full transparency.

Why Choose PPC Garage for Overheating Repairs?

  • Fast, same-day diagnostics in most cases

  • Experienced technicians specialising in overheating issues

  • Honest pricing — no hidden extras

  • Local, trusted garage serving all of Thanet

  • High-quality parts and reliable workmanship

We fix the cause, not just the symptoms.

Don’t Risk Engine Damage! Get It Checked Today!

  • Overheating can turn into a major repair if ignored. Visit PPC Garage for quick diagnosis and reliable cooling system repairs that keep your vehicle safe and running properly.

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FAQ

No. Continuing to drive an overheating car can cause severe engine damage, including warped cylinder heads, blown head gaskets, or a seized engine. Pull over safely and let the engine cool before seeking professional help.

The most common causes are low coolant levels, thermostat failure, radiator issues, and cooling fan malfunctions. A proper diagnostic test is needed to confirm the exact cause.

If your temperature gauge rises quickly, or your heater blows cold air while the engine is hot, the thermostat may be stuck closed, preventing coolant from circulating.

Coolant loss can result from external leaks (hoses, radiator, water pump) or internal engine issues such as head gasket failure. A pressure test will reveal where the coolant is going.

Ignoring overheating can lead to catastrophic engine failure, including cracked heads, damaged pistons, or complete engine loss. Early diagnosis saves money and prevents breakdowns.

A flush can help if the issue is caused by blockages or contaminated coolant. However, if a component like the thermostat, radiator, or water pump has failed, flushing alone won’t solve the problem.

Most diagnostics can be completed the same day. More complex issues—such as suspected head gasket failure—may require additional testing like a block test or compression test.

The cost depends on the cause. Minor issues like hoses or thermostats are relatively inexpensive, while major repairs such as radiators or head gaskets involve more labour. We provide an itemised quote after diagnosis.

Get in touch

Location

  • PPC GARAGE LIMITED
  • 3 Crossways business park
  • Canterbury Road
  • St. Nicholas at-Wade, Birchington 
  • CT7 0AA
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