An overheating engine can cause serious damage in minutes. Acting quickly and safely can save your engine.
Signs of overheating
- The temperature gauge climbs into the red.
- A warning light comes on.
- Steam or a sweet smell comes from the hood.
- The engine loses power or makes unusual noises.
Step 1: Pull over safely
Turn on hazard lights and steer to a safe place as soon as you can. Turn off the engine. Driving on an overheated engine can ruin it.
Step 2: Stay clear of the hood
- Do not open the hood right away. Steam and hot coolant can cause burns.
- Wait until the engine is cool, which can take 30 minutes or more.
- Never open the radiator cap on a hot engine.
Step 3: Check basics once it is cool
- Look for leaks under the car.
- Check the coolant level in the reservoir.
- Look for a broken belt or a loose hose.
Step 4: Decide what to do
If you have coolant and the cause is obvious and small, you may add coolant and drive carefully to a shop. If there is a leak, steam again or the gauge climbs quickly, do not drive. Call for a tow.
On long roads with few stops
In areas with long stretches and few places to stop, stay with the car and call for help. Walking along the road in heat is risky.
Heat and safety
In hot weather, stay in the shade if you can and keep water with you.
Quick checklist
- Pull over and turn off the engine.
- Do not open a hot radiator.
- Do not drive an overheated car.
- Call for a tow if unsure.
Why engines overheat
Common causes are low coolant, a leak, a failed fan, a stuck thermostat or a broken water pump. Heat and stop-and-go traffic make it worse. Check coolant levels before long trips.
Do not pour cold water on a hot engine
Cold water on a hot engine can crack parts. If you need to add coolant, wait until the engine has cooled and add it slowly with the engine off.
Frequently asked questions
Turning the heater to full can pull some heat from the engine and help while you look for a safe place to stop.
Often 30 minutes or more. Do not open the cap until the engine is cool.
Only if the cause is clear and small. If it overheats again, do not drive.
Related services
Need help?
RoadPros Best Tow Truck, 24 S Flagler Ave, Florida City, FL 33034. Call (239) 448-5696 for a free estimate.
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