How to Handle Your Engine Overheating
While driving in the hot summer sun, it is important to keep an eye on the temperature gauge of your vehicle. Any vehicle has the potential to overheat, and if you aren’t careful, you can cause lasting damage to the engine. If you ever see smoke rising from under the hood, see the temp gauge spike, or get a warning light on your dashboard, then you should immediately pull to a safe area and follow these instructions.
What to Do When the Car Overheats
What to Do When the Car Overheats
- Pull Over Safely: Whether you are on the highway or on a city street, it is important to find a safe location to pull over.
- Allow the Engine to Cool: Once you are at a complete stop, turn off the engine and allow it to rest for fifteen minutes. During this time, you should keep an eye on the temperature gauge and wait till it drops to a normal level.
- Get On Your Phone: While the engine is cooling, look online for a repair shop and potential tow service. You may also need to contact a friend to pick you up.
- Start the Engine: If you are unable to reach a tow truck after fifteen minutes, gently try and restart the engine. If you monitor the engine temperature and drive carefully, it may be possible to drive to the nearest mechanic.