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Car Engine is Overheating

If your car engine is overheating, it’s important to address the issue immediately to avoid serious damage. Here are the steps you should take:

Immediate Actions:

  1. Turn Off the AC & Turn On the Heater

    • Reduce engine load by turning off the air conditioner.

    • Turn the heater to max heat and set the fan to high—this helps pull heat away from the engine.

  2. Pull Over Safely

    • If the temperature gauge is in the red or you see steam/smoke, stop driving immediately.

    • Park in a safe location and turn off the engine to prevent further damage.

  3. Do NOT Open the Radiator Cap Yet

    • The cooling system is under pressure, and opening it while hot can cause boiling coolant to spray out, leading to burns.

    • Wait at least 30 minutes for the engine to cool before checking.

Check for Possible Causes:

Once the engine is cool enough, inspect:

  • Coolant Level – Check the overflow tank or radiator (if safe). If low, top it up with a 50/50 coolant-water mix (use distilled water if coolant isn’t available).

  • Leaks – Look under the car for coolant puddles (green, orange, or pink fluid). Common leak points: hoses, radiator, water pump, or thermostat housing.

  • Radiator Fan – If the car is stationary and overheating, the fan may not be working. Check if it spins when the engine is hot.

  • Thermostat – A stuck-closed thermostat can block coolant flow.

  • Serpentine Belt – If broken or loose, the water pump won’t circulate coolant.

Temporary Fixes (If You Must Drive):

  • If coolant is low, refill it and monitor the temperature closely.

  • If a leak is severe, call for a tow truck—driving with an overheating engine can warp the cylinder head or blow a gasket.

Long-Term Solutions:

  • Get a Professional Inspection – A mechanic should check the cooling system, including:

    • Water pump

    • Thermostat

    • Radiator & hoses

    • Head gasket (if overheating persists, white smoke from exhaust, or milky oil)

Prevention Tips:

✔ Regularly check coolant levels.
✔ Replace coolant as per your car’s maintenance schedule.
✔ Inspect hoses and belts for wear.

If the problem keeps happening, do not ignore it—overheating can lead to costly engine repairs.

Let us know if you need help diagnosing further!

www.amaauto.ae