What To Do When Your Car Overheats
Here's What to Do When Your Car Overheats
Engine problems can be scary, especially when you're not sure how to handle them. One of the most common issues you might face with your car's engine is overheating. You'll know it's overheating when the engine overheating light is illuminated or when the engine temperature gauge metre moves into the red zone. More extreme warning signs include steam coming from under the hood or strange smells. We at Metro Chrysler in Whitehorse, YT, want to help you first understand why an engine overheats.
Why Is Your Car Overheating?
There are various car overheating causes. Usually, there's an issue with the cooling system and heat is trapped in the engine compartment. Other reasons include:
- Faulty radiator fan
- Broken water
- Cooling system leak
- Coolant system failure
- Clogged coolant hose
- Low oil levels
- Thermostat failure
- A blocked heat exchange unit
Additionally, a car overheating when idle means the radiator or coolant system is empty. While there are numerous causes behind an engine overheating, they all lead to the same result: possible engine damage.
What To Do When Your Car Overheats
Here are a few things you can do when your engine is overheating.
- Turn On the Heater
It sounds counterintuitive, but turning on the heater draws warmth away from the engine and reduces the load on the engine's cooling system. You'll know it worked if the engine overheating warning light turns off or the temperature gauge returns to the neutral position.
- Pull Over
If the first method doesn't work, pull over, switch off the engine and let it cool down for about 15 minutes.
- Add Coolant
If the issue is with the coolant level and not a larger problem such as a blocked hose, allow the car to cool down completely and then add some more engine coolant if you have it on hand. Your best bet is to visit our Service Centre where we can thoroughly inspect your vehicle.
Prevent Your Car from Overheating
Don't wait until you see steam coming from under the hood. Preventing engine overheating is easy. Regular radiator maintenance, coolant flushes, and engine checks prevent potential problems from occurring. Our Parts Centre will also help by replacing faulty components with high-quality parts. Visit us for new inventory that is guaranteed to keep you and your car feeling cool on the road.