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An overheating warning can appear quickly in traffic, especially as temperatures rise. Steam, a high temperature gauge, a warning message, or a sweet coolant smell should be treated seriously.
Respond before engine damage gets worse
Turn off the air conditioning, reduce engine load, and move to a safe stopping place as soon as possible. Switch on the hazard lights and shut off the engine. If stopping on a highway shoulder, stay aware of traffic and avoid standing next to active lanes.
Do not open a hot cooling system
Never remove the radiator cap while the engine is hot. Pressurized coolant can cause severe burns. Do not pour cold water onto a hot engine. Allow the vehicle to cool and wait for a trained professional if you are unsure.
Common causes of overheating
- Low coolant from a leak
- Failed radiator hose or drive belt
- Cooling-fan malfunction
- Thermostat or water-pump trouble
- Radiator damage or restricted airflow
Adding fluid does not repair the underlying problem. If coolant is leaking, the warning returns, steam continues, or the engine ran extremely hot, arrange a tow rather than restarting repeatedly.
Prepare before summer travel
NHTSA’s summer driving guidance recommends inspecting belts, hoses, tires, fluids, and other vehicle systems before a trip. Preventive checks can reduce the chance of a roadside breakdown.
For roadside assistance or transport to a repair facility in Central New Jersey, call Chain Gang Towing at (908) 642-3699.