A car catching fire is not something we expect to happen. It’s a rarity that most frequently occurs only in movies. Nonetheless, it’s a machine filled with a lot of complex components, flammable liquids, and the like that have the potential to catch fire. So, in such a situation, you might catch yourself asking the question, "What happens if my car catches on fire?" Here you can find the answers to that question, along with what do you do if your car catches on fire. There are a few signs that you can look out for in this case. ABE is a special place where you can buy the best pre-owned car.

Warning Signs To Look Out For

 Here are some signs car will catch on fire that you should always keep a check on:

1. Car Fuses Can Explode

Car fuses are generally very sensitive and prone to overheating. The fuse can thus blow off because of excessive heat or some complications in its electrical connections. This can cause a fire to start in the engine bay or beneath the car while driving. Consider taking your vehicle to a mechanic to get the issue sorted. 

2. Exhaust Noises That Are Too Loud

A loud noise from the exhaust works as an indicator that alerts you of a fire that could have taken place beneath the vehicle or at the rear end. It will start emitting loud bangs in such a situation. 

3. Engine temperature rise

Another indicator that can alarm you if there is a fire in the engine bay or even in the bonnet area is the rise in the engine’s temperature. A glance at the temperature gauge gives you details about the temperature of the engine and whether it is overheating or not. 

4. Lowered Fluid Levels 

In a situation where there is potentially a chance of your car catching fire, the oil and other fluid levels will start decreasing rapidly. Keep an eye out on the oil and other fluid gauges to get an estimate of their levels and if they are falling rapidly or not. 

5. Bursting Tyres

If you’ve been running on smooth roads and yet find your tyres bursting for no apparent reason, then this is a sign that your car may have caught on fire. A strong smell of plastic or rubber burning might strongly emanate in such a situation. 

Also Read: Tyre Maintenance

Reasons Behind Fire In The Car

There are multiple reasons for a car to catch fire. Here are a few of them:

1. A Mechanical Failure

There’s no doubt that your car is made up of several mechanical parts that create heat as a result of friction. This might contribute to a fire. 

2. Leakage Of Fluids & Oil Spills

Leakage of important fluids like the transmission fluid and an oil spill in the engine bay area when you are replacing them might be contributors to starting a fire in the car. Ensure that you check for such leakages and that there are no oil spills in your engine bay.

3. Substandard Components

Quality is something that one should not compromise on. Thus, if you use components that are rather inferior or of low quality, then the high amount of stress that the car endures might not be something the components can manage. This might result in a fire. 

4. Wiring That Is Faulty 

Loose or faulty wiring is a recipe for disaster. It’s something that can cause a short circuit and cause your car to catch fire if any of the wires that are exposed start to spark. 

5. An Electrical Failure

A malfunction in any of the complex electrical wiring or components of the car can cause a fire. Ensure that all of these components of your car are checked to avoid such failures from taking place.

6. Hoses That Are Loose Or Worn Out 

The different fluids that are being carried to the engine are done by hoses. Thus, they are an important component of your vehicle and if they are loose or worn out, they might cause a leak. This might hence result in your car catching on fire. 

7. Oil Filler Cap That Is Loose Or Missing 

An engine is generally running on a high temperature and an oil filler cap that is loose or missing might cause the oil to spill over the engine. This again can result in a fire and is extremely dangerous. 

Also Read: How Can You Choose The Best Engine Oil For Car?

FAQs

1. Will a car explode if it catches on fire?

Considering the car has liquids and components that are flammable, there is a chance that a car will explode if it catches fire. In such a situation, ensure that you are away from the vicinity of the flaming car. 

2. What do you do when the car catch fire?

There are a few things on what to do if car catches fire that you must keep in mind. Turn off the engine, leave the car and make sure you are at a safe distance from the vehicle (preferably a hundred or so feet away). Get yourself and others to safety first and don’t go looking for personal items. Get in touch with a fire department and your insurance company and brief them about the situation. 

3. How do you know if a car is going to explode?

The temperature of the engine may rise up rapidly, you might see sparks erupting or smoke coming off from the hood of the car. Leaking fluids or strong smell of oil are also indicators that a car might explore. 

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