Device for preventing the overloading of internal combustion engines in motor vehicles

The invention relates to a device for preventing the overloading of internal combustion engines in motor vehicles, with a power control element controlling the supply of fuel and/or combustion air, which in the event of an increased operating temperature of the internal combustion engine is automatically adjusted by a thermostat control element arranged in immediate proximity to the internal combustion engine so as to reduce the power output. The thermostat control element may simultaneously form the full load stop for the power control element or, however, may be incorporated into the means of transmission, for example into a linkage.