Posted on 6/27/2025
Few driving situations are more stressful than being stuck in traffic and noticing your temperature gauge creeping into the red. When a car overheats, especially during stop-and-go conditions, it’s important to act quickly to prevent serious damage to your engine. Whether you’re caught in a summer traffic jam or idling at a long light, overheating can strike without warning. Knowing what to do at the moment and how to prevent it from happening again will save you time, money, and frustration. What Causes a Car to Overheat in Traffic When your car is moving slowly or not at all, airflow to the radiator is reduced. If your cooling system is already under strain, this lack of ventilation can cause temperatures to rise rapidly. Several issues may contribute to overheating, especially in traffic: A failing radiator fan won’t ... read more