What can cause an engine to overheat?

An engine can overheat for a variety of reasons, but low coolant levels are a major factor. Coolant plays a crucial role in regulating the engine's temperature by absorbing heat and dissipating it through the radiator. When coolant levels are low, there is insufficient fluid to absorb and carry away the heat generated during the combustion process. This can lead to the engine reaching dangerously high temperatures, which can cause severe damage, such as warping of the cylinder head or even a complete engine failure.

While other issues like defective spark plugs, a dirty air filter, and worn piston rings can affect engine performance and efficiency, they do not directly impact the cooling system in the same way that low coolant does. Defective spark plugs can lead to misfires or poor combustion, a dirty air filter can restrict airflow and reduce power, and worn piston rings can result in increased oil consumption and reduced compression, but none of these problems typically cause the engine to overheat as directly or as immediately as low coolant levels do.