Overheating Engine: What to Do and How to Prevent It

If the temperature gauge climbs — do this now

• Turn the AC off and the heat on full blast. The heater core pulls heat out of the coolant.
• Pull over as soon as it's safe. Don't try to 'make it home.'
• Turn the engine off. Do NOT open the radiator cap — the system is pressurized and can cause severe burns.
• Wait at least 30 minutes before checking coolant level in the overflow tank.
• If the coolant is low and you have some, add it slowly to the reservoir only once the engine is cool. Then drive gently to a shop — or call for a tow if the gauge climbs again.

Common causes

• Low coolant from a leak — hoses, water pump, radiator, or heater core
• Stuck thermostat — coolant can't circulate
• Failed cooling fan or fan relay — overheats at idle, fine on the highway
• Clogged radiator — years of old coolant leave deposits that block flow
• Failing water pump — often with a coolant smell or a whine from the front of the engine
• Blown head gasket — white exhaust smoke, milky oil, or constant coolant loss with no visible leak

Prevention is cheap

Coolant doesn't last forever. Its anti-corrosion additives wear out, and old coolant becomes acidic and eats the water pump, radiator, and heater core from the inside. Most manufacturers call for a flush every 30,000–60,000 miles or every 5 years. Our $120 Cooling System Flush replaces every drop, checks the thermostat and hoses, and pressure-tests the system for leaks.

Noticed a sweet smell, a puddle under the car, or a gauge that's creeping higher than usual? Book a Radiator Inspection ($65) or a Coolant Leak Inspection ($85) before it becomes an overheating event.