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How to React To An Overheating Car

Member
By edieness
User-Submitted Article
(12 Ratings)
React To An Overheating Car
React To An Overheating Car

If your car is over heating it may be about to shut down and in need of auto repair from an auto mechanic. Driving with an overheated engine could turn costly if the overheating ruined your car engine. It is important to take care of your overheating car to avoid expensive auto repairs.

Difficulty: Moderate
Instructions
  1. Step 1

    Pull your car, truck or SUV into a near by parking lot. If need be, pull onto the side of the road, be as far away from on coming traffic as possible to avoid an accident. Be safe when choosing a place to pull the car over.

  2. Step 2

    Turn off the air conditioner, radio or any other extra car accessories that you may have running. Turn your car off until the engine is cold down. Turn it back on without starting the engine and check the temperature gage to see how hot your car is. If you car is at a safe temperature, start your car, turn your heat on full blast (this will help to cool the engine) and attempt to drive to the nearest auto repair station. If you car starts to overheat again, pull off the road and turn off the car until it cools. Repeat as many times as necessary until you get to the auto repair station.

  3. Step 3

    Turn off the car completely if your check engine or warning light does not go out and you see smoke or fumes coming from the engine, play it safe, do not try to drive your vehicle. Call for assistance, you may need an auto mechanic. Usually a car over heating is caused by a malfunctioning thermostat or not enough coolant in the radiator.

Tips & Warnings
  • Do not attempt to undo the radiator cap while the car is hot; you could get burned.
  • Hopefully you do not need a new transmission or a radiator for your automobile, but if you do be sure to get an auto mechanic for car maintenance.

Comments  

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mweise said

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on 7/23/2009 This always happens to me! Thanks for the great tips, 5* and a Digg

AmyRose said

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on 7/23/2009 Very good instructions on dealing with an overheated car, 5*

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on 7/23/2009 Good tips on what to do when a car is overheating. Luckily this hasn't happened very often to me. 5*

Flag This Comment

on 7/22/2009 Wow great tips on How to Know What To Do If Your Car is Overheating

kristara said

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on 7/22/2009 Very important info! 5*

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