As a driver, the last thing you want is for your engine to overheat while you're on the road. Unfortunately, it can happen, especially if you haven't been keeping up with regular maintenance on your vehicle. If you find yourself in this situation, there are a few things you can do to help mitigate the damage and keep yourself safe.
1. Turn off the A/C and Turn on the Heater
When your engine overheats, it's crucial to turn off your car's air conditioning system to reduce the load on the engine. Turning on the heater will help pull heat away from the engine and release it into the passenger section. This may not be comfortable during hot weather, but it can help keep your engine from overheating until you can safely pull over.
2. Safely Pullover
If your car is still overheating after driving for a few minutes with the heater on and A/C off, you should pull over. Turn off the engine and let it cool down for at least 20-30 minutes. This is the safest approach to cooling an engine.
Do not attempt to remove the radiator cap before the time lapses. This can cause severe burns as the coolant in an overheated car can reach over 230 degrees.
3. Check the Coolant Level
Check the coolant level after the engine has cooled down. Low coolant indicates a possible leak in the cooling system. This can be due to a cracked radiator or a damaged hose.
Add more coolant to the radiator or overflow tank to help you reach the nearest service station. It's essential that you use a car's recommended coolant. Therefore, check your owner's manual or ask an auto repair professional for advice.
4. Visit an Auto Repair Shop
In many cases, adding coolant will enable you to make it to a repair shop without risking more damage to your engine. However, it won't fix the underlying cause of the overheating. Visit an auto repair shop as soon as possible and have the car's cooling system checked out and fixed by an expert.
Overheating may be avoided by following the manufacturer's recommendations for radiator maintenance and coolant flushes. It's also essential to perform routine maintenance on your car's radiator and engine to avoid breakdowns and frequent mishaps. If you need engine repair, don't hesitate to give our auto repair shop a call today!