Even with all the advances in modern vehicle cooling systems, it's still possible for your car or truck engine to overheat.
The Signs Your Car Engine is Overheating
If you've ever had the unfortunate experience of your car engine overheating, you may already know the signs: steam billowing from under the hood, a strange smell, and the temperature gauge ticking into the red.
If you observe any of the above signs, it's likely that your car engine is overheating. Following the below tips can help save you money on repairs when the time comes.
What To Do When Your Engine Overheats
There are a variety of issues that can lead to engine overheating. We can help determine the cause and get you back on the road quickly. But when you notice the first signs of overheating, follow these steps as soon as possible:
1. Turn On Your Car Heater
It may seem counter-intuitive, but one of the smartest things you can do to help with engine overheating is turn on your car heater. Turning off the air conditioning and turning on the heat draws warm air away from the overheating car engine.
2. Pull Your Car Over
While remaining calm, find a safe place to pull your car over and turn off the engine. The engine needs some time to cool down. Don't attempt to open the hood right away. You could cause yourself serious burns. Instead, wait at least 15 minutes for the engine to cool.
3. Add Coolant
Gently touch the hood to ensure it is cool. Put on gloves, and use a towel to apply pressure while gently loosening the radiator cap. Add enough coolant to reach the fill line. This will help your car cool down temporarily.
4. Bring Your Vehicle for Service
Unfortunately, none of the above steps will solve whatever issue caused your engine to overheat. Your final and most important step is to bring your car to our shop so that we can diagnose and fix the issue.
If you need engine repair, don't hesitate to give our auto repair shop a call today!