This study investigates the influence of quadratic (nonlinear) convection in transient magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) combined convection over a two‐dimensional stretching sheet. It explores the effects of thermal radiation, suction, and heat sources or sinks. The Crank–Nicholson implicit finite difference method is employed for numerical computations. The significance lies in considering secondary convection, which is crucial in understanding nonlinear convective effects affecting flow and heat transfer properties. The study aims to advance our comprehension of how secondary convection impacts the overall system behavior. Through numerical calculations validated against existing literature, strong agreement is demonstrated. The study evaluates secondary convection effects, magnetic, buoyancy, gravitational parameters, Prandtl number, and radiation parameters. Notably, strong quadratic convection alters flow patterns, affecting velocity and temperature profiles. Moreover, it is observed that when increasing the nonlinear (quadratic) convective factors, the temperature profile increases for and decreases for . The prevalence of nonlinear or second‐order convection highlights magnetic dominance. In essence, this research enhances our understanding of complex convection interactions in MHD flow, shedding light on the role of secondary convection in shaping system behavior.