What can cause an engine to overheat?

An engine can overheat for several reasons, and all the options listed contribute to this issue.

Low coolant levels lead to inadequate heat transfer, as the coolant is responsible for absorbing and dissipating heat from the engine. When coolant levels are low, the engine may not have enough fluid to effectively manage its temperature, increasing the likelihood of overheating.

A malfunctioning thermostat can also cause overheating. The thermostat regulates the flow of coolant through the engine and the radiator. If it gets stuck in the closed position, coolant will not circulate properly, causing temperatures to rise unregulated.

A failed water pump is another critical factor in engine overheating. The water pump’s role is to circulate coolant throughout the engine and the radiator. If the pump malfunctions, coolant flow is restricted or stopped, which can lead to a rapid increase in engine temperature.

Since all three issues—low coolant levels, a malfunctioning thermostat, and a failed water pump—impact the cooling system's effectiveness, it is accurate to say that any one of these failures can lead to engine overheating. Therefore, the comprehensive option that encompasses all potential causes is indeed the correct choice.