* Head gasket failure: This is a common consequence of overheating. A blown head gasket allows coolant to mix with oil (creating a milky substance in the oil) or to leak into the cylinders, causing misfires and rough running.
* Warped cylinder head: The extreme heat can warp the cylinder head, preventing the valves from sealing properly. This leads to compression loss and a rough running engine.
* Cracked engine block: In severe cases, the engine block itself can crack, leading to coolant leaks and internal damage affecting the engine's ability to run smoothly.
* Damaged pistons or rings: Overheating can damage pistons or piston rings, leading to low compression and rough running.
* Internal damage to other components: Other parts, like connecting rods or bearings, may also be damaged by overheating.
Do NOT attempt to drive the vehicle. Continuing to run the engine could cause catastrophic and expensive damage.
You need to have a mechanic diagnose the problem immediately. They'll likely need to perform a compression test, inspect the coolant and oil for contamination, and possibly conduct a more extensive diagnostic test to pinpoint the exact cause of the rough running. Ignoring this could result in needing a very expensive engine repair or replacement.
