What to Do If Your Car Starts to Overheat

A rising temperature gauge, warning light, or steam from under the bonnet means the engine is overheating. Acting quickly reduces the risk of costly damage.

Never open the radiator cap when the engine is hot; pressurised coolant can cause severe burns.

Immediate steps

▸Turn off the air conditioning
▸Turn the heater to maximum heat and fan speed to draw heat from the engine
▸Pull over safely as soon as possible and switch off the engine

Once stopped

Let the engine cool for at least 30 minutes. Look for visible leaks, a broken fan belt, or low coolant in the expansion tank, without opening anything that is hot.

Common causes

▸Low coolant from a leak
▸Faulty thermostat
▸Failed water pump
▸Radiator fan not working
▸Blocked radiator

When to call for help

If the gauge rises quickly again, there are signs of a large leak, or you see white smoke from the exhaust, call for roadside assistance rather than driving.

Prevention

Check coolant levels regularly when the engine is cold, and have the cooling system inspected as part of routine servicing.

CAUTION: This is general automotive information, not professional mechanical advice. Always follow your vehicle manufacturer’s specifications and service schedule, and have brakes, steering, tyres, and other safety-critical systems inspected by a qualified mechanic.

🔓

Keep reading

Watch a short ad to unlock the rest of this guide — free, no account needed.

Keep reading

Related procedures