Nobody wants to see steam coming from under the hood of their car. They also don’t want to see the temperature gauge climbing into the red. When either situation arises, they become stressed immediately. They worry that they are harming their engine and will face an expensive repair bill. When a person knows what to do if their car overheats, the risk of needing a major engine repair decreases significantly.
Know the Signs
Every driver should know the signs of a vehicle that is overheating. If there is any confusion, ask the mechanic the next time the car goes in for an auto repair in Shepherdstown, WV. Most people first notice they have a problem when they look down at the dashboard and see that the temperature gauge is in the red or has reached the H. Read the owner’s manual to know what to look for on the dashboard, as it differs by vehicle. Some vehicles now have warning lights that alert the driver to the engine overheating.
Steam coming from under the hood is always worrisome. It’s a sign the coolant has reached the boiling point and is coming from the radiator or overflow tank. As the cooling system is contained, it should never do this. However, this steam could be smoke from an oil or fluid leak or another engine issue. Strange smells may indicate this is the problem. Engines often lose power when they are low on coolant. The engine might stall, go into limp mode, or run rough, so drivers need to watch for these signs. Acting quickly when any of these signs are seen will help minimize damage to the engine.
Steps to Take When the Engine Overheats
When any of the warning signs are seen, the driver should turn off the air conditioner and turn on the heat. Turning the AC off minimizes stress on the engine; while turning on the heat diverts hot air away from the engine and into the cabin. Doing so helps lower the engine temperature. Immediately begin looking for a safe place to pull off the road and address the problem.
Allow the engine to cool before opening the hood. Opening it before the engine has cooled can lead to severe burns. Wait 30 minutes, and then open the hood. Ensure the radiator cap has cooled before attempting to remove it. Again, this will help prevent serious burns. While waiting, contact an auto repair shop for help. They can recommend a towing company or direct the driver to call their roadside assistance provider. Do not start the engine while waiting, as doing so could lead to further damage.
Once the engine has cooled, check the coolant reservoir. If it is low and there is coolant in the car, top it off. Only do so when the engine is cold, as the normal operating temperature is still too hot to add fluids. Take this step if a tow truck is not available, and drive the vehicle to the nearest auto repair shop to have it repaired. Watch the car for signs it is overheating again, and repeat these steps if necessary.
Don’t panic if the engine overheats. Follow the steps outlined above to minimize the damage, and have the vehicle checked by a licensed mechanic. Individuals who do so find that they reduce the need for expensive repairs and will have their car back sooner. This scenario is the best possible outcome.