What To Do If Your Car Overheats

Today's vehicles have high-level cooling systems supplied with numerous heat sensors and computer-controlled electric fans crafted to keep your engine operating in any weather. But do you know what to do if your car overheats?

There are numerous reasons why the car could overheat. Parts such as gaskets, rubber hoses, and water pumps can get a leak with regular wear and tear. Certain driving conditions like daily rush hour traffic, put substantial stress on the cooling system, causing it to break down.

Luckily, you can typically avoid this issue with regular maintenance by a licensed mechanic. This professional will check your vehicle's oil and coolant levels. Your hoses, thermostat, fans, and other components of the cooling system get inspected too. 


What to Do if Your Car Overheats:
Keep These Emergency Items to Keep in Your Trunk 

• Towels
• Quarts of oil
• Coolant
• Small tool kit
• Heavy-duty gloves

Steps to Take if Your Car Overheats:

1. Turn on The Heater

It sounds counterproductive but turn on the heater. It pulls warm air away from the engine and into the passenger side. This action reduces the burden on the engine's cooling system. Turning on the heather might be enough to stop the overheating.
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2. Pull Over

If your car keeps overheating after you've been driving a few minutes, pull over and cut the engine off. It's the safest way to cool the engine. If you have roadside assistance, now is the time to call. You probably need an emergency towing service. 

3. Add Coolant

After you've waited around 15 minutes and the hood is cool to the touch, add coolant. Then, put the cap back on and cut on the engine. If the red warning light goes out or the temperature gauge goes back to normal, you can drive your vehicle. Though, you need to keep an eye on the light or temperature gauge.

4. Head to A Service Station

Adding coolant does nothing to resolve the issue that made your engine overheat in the first place. You will want to drive safely to the closest repair station. An auto professional will examine your auto's cooling system. While driving, keep checking the temperature gauge. Contact us at Buffalo Roadside if your car starts giving you trouble.

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