What to Do When Your Engine Overheats

When your engine overheats, you probably only have a few minutes to prevent extreme damage to your engine. There are various reasons your engine might be overheating, but it is important to be prepared to avoid repairs running into the thousands. Here are a few things you can do when your engine overheats that can make the difference between a minor inconvenience and an expensive visit to the auto shop.

1. Turn Off the Air Conditioner

Turning off the air conditioner will take a load off the engine, reducing stress caused by the cooling system. If possible, crank up the heat in the car to divert heat away from the engine. This tip will work best if the air outside is cold.

2. Pull Over and Turn Off the Engine

Find a safe spot to pull over and shut off the engine. Allow the engine to cool off for at least 15 minutes, during which you should keep an eye on the gauge if your car has one.

3. Add Radiator Fluid

If you have radiator fluid, top off the contents to protect your engine from further heat damage. In the meantime, call an auto repair shop or tow service to get your car in for servicing. If you can't get towed, start your engine after letting it cool and drive carefully to the nearest repair shop.

4. What Not To Do

It is important to stay calm and stop the engine as soon as possible to avoid grievous bodily harm to you and other motorists. Once stopped, do not immediately open the hood because this could get you burned.
The best way to deal with overheating is to prevent it in the first place. You can do this by checking coolant levels, stopping coolant leaks, and regular water pump maintenance. If your car needs engine repair, don't put it off; visit Woodie's Auto Service & Repair Centers today.