Seeking Advice on Overheating and Low Coolant Issue in 2020 Dacia Duster with Gas Engine

Hey there! Got a 2018 Dacia Sandero here and faced a slightly similar issue a while back! Guess you could call me your average car enthusiast, with some experience under the belt. When my engine started getting hot, noticed my coolant level was too low as well. I took it straight down to my trusted local garage and it turned out to be a pretty straightforward coolant top-up, no sweat. Set me back a good €52.5, but got the job done right away. Could be the same with your Duster, but it's tough to tell without more details. Could you maybe share more about when and how often you're seeing the overheating? Also, have you noticed any leaks? That could help figure this out. Cheers!

Hey, thanks for the swift response! So far, the overheating usually happens after driving for around 30-45 minutes or so. There doesn't seem to be any puddles when the car's parked, so I can't confirm a leak just yet. By the way, I just hit the 117614 KM on my Duster after the last service, in case that helps. Maybe it's time for a visit to my workshop, just like you suggested. Costs aside, safety's a top priority. Cheers!

Hey, no problem, happy to help! Nothing like the bond between a driver and their ride, and safety is indeed the top-most priority. So based on your further information, it might not be a leak. The overheating after 30-45 mins of driving, however, points towards coolant system issues. When I took my Sandero for service around 115k KM, my mechanic suggested routinely checking and topping off the coolant as a preventive measure. So, consider checking coolant levels regularly or even whenever that pesky warning light comes on. Remember though, when it comes to overheating engines, it could range from minor issues like low coolant levels to major ones, such as a failing water pump or radiator malfunctions. So, a visit to your trusted garage is definitely a good call sooner rather than later. You wouldn't want a heating issue to turn into something much worse. Take it easy on the revs 'till you get sorted, and let us know how it goes!

That's a boatload of practical advice. Totally get it; the issue could be as simple as the coolant level or as serious as a failing part. Well, the knowledge you impacted here is priceless. I'll certainly be more cautious as I count the miles on that dashboard and will ensure I check that coolant regularly. Sounds like it's high time for my Duster to roll back into the shop. Appreciate you helping me out and the reassurance to play safe. Fingers crossed that it's nothing major. Will definitely keep you posted on how it turns out! Cheers, car comrade!