What to Do When Your Car’s Engine Overheats

Want to know what to do when your car’s engine overheats? Or what to do when your temperature gauge needle jumps to 3/4 of capacity? Here are some simple tips to save you money.

 

Pull Over

 

The first thing you need to do is to pull over and get out of traffic. Move to a safe place as soon as you can. Do not try to drive to the nearest gas station because this may burn up your engine.

 

Turn Your Heater On

 

Turn your heater and fan on high. Open the windows if it is in the summer and turn off the air conditioner. Turning on the heater will transfer some heat from your engine to the heater core. This may quickly bring down the engine temperature.

 

Lift the Hood

 

If you have steam coming from the hood, do not open it until the steam stops. You could be badly burned by it.

 

Open the Coolant Overflow Reservoir Cap After 5 Minutes

 

Do not open the radiator cap while the engine is still hot. It will release steam and very hot coolant which could severely burn you. It could also hit you in the face. Once it is cool (check the temperature gauge), place a rag over the coolant overflow reservoir cap and slowly open it.

 

Fill the Radiator

 

Look over the hoses and check for damage or leaks. If there are none, add antifreeze or water – if you have it. Otherwise, you will need to call a garage for help. In the warmer months, it is a good idea to carry a gallon of engine coolant or water with you.

If your engine overheats after you allow it to cool and add coolant, contact J & G Transmissions for recommendations on engine overheat, engine overheat problems, engine overheat or transmission overheat. 

In the great city of Murray, UT, J & G Transmissions can provide service to ensure your vehicle is ready for a vacation and working properly. For more information, call us today at (801) 262-2321 or visit www.jandgtransmissions.com