Engine
What to Do When Your Engine Overheats
Overheating damages engines quickly, and the difference between an inexpensive repair and a major one is often the first ten minutes.
On the road, right now
Turn off the air conditioning, turn the heater on full, and pull over somewhere safe as soon as you can. Then shut the engine off.
Do not open the radiator cap on a hot engine. Pressurized coolant can cause serious burns. Let the engine cool before anything else.
Common causes
Low coolant from a leak, a failing thermostat, a bad water pump, a cooling fan that no longer runs, or a clogged radiator.
Steam, a sweet smell, or puddles under the car after parking all point toward a coolant leak.
Driving it in is not always safe
If the temperature gauge climbs again right after restarting, or you see steam, towing costs far less than an overheated engine.
Call (202) 763-1686 and describe what happened. We will tell you whether it is safe to bring it in.
Questions about your vehicle?
Call Queens Auto Repair at (202) 763-1686 or visit us at 5320 Queens Chapel Rd, Hyattsville, MD 20782.
General guidance only. Your vehicle's owner's manual and an in-person inspection come first.