An overheated engine can be a stressful situation for any driver. In this post by AMSOIL: Cam Synthetic in Concord, we’ll walk you through the steps to take when your car is running hot to stay safe on the road.

If you’ve ever been driving down the road and noticed your engine temperature gauge creeping higher and higher, you know how stressful an overheated engine can be. Not only can it cause damage to your car, but it can also leave you stranded on the side of the road. In this post, we’ll walk you through what to do when your car is running hot, so you can avoid costly repairs and stay safe on the road.

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Understanding the Signs of an Overheated Engine

Before we dive into what to do when your engine is overheating, it’s important to understand the signs that your car may be running hot. Some of the most common signs of an overheated engine include:

• Steam or smoke coming from under the hood
• A burning smell
• The temperature gauge creeping into the red zone
• A warning light on your dashboard

If you notice any of these signs, it’s crucial to take action immediately to prevent further damage to your engine.

What Causes an Engine to Overheat?

Several things can cause an engine to overheat, including:

• Low coolant levels
• A malfunctioning thermostat
• A broken water pump
• A clogged radiator
• A faulty fan or fan belt
• A leak in the cooling system

If you’re experiencing engine overheating, it’s essential to diagnose the root cause of the problem to prevent it from happening again.

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What to Do When Your Engine is Overheating

If you notice any signs of an overheated engine, it’s vital to take action immediately. Here are the steps to follow when your engine is running hot:

1. Turn off your air conditioning and turn on your heater: This may seem counterintuitive, but turning off your AC and turning on your heater can help to draw heat away from the engine and cool it down.
2. Pull over and turn off your engine: As soon as you notice your engine is running hot, pull over to a safe location and turn off your engine. Do not attempt to drive your car any further, as this can cause further damage to your engine.
3. Wait for your engine to cool down: Give it time to cool down once you’ve turned off your engine. Do not attempt to open the hood or remove the radiator cap until the engine has cooled down completely.
4. Check your coolant levels: Once your engine has cooled down, check your coolant levels. If your coolant levels are low, you may have a leak in your cooling system or a faulty radiator.
5. Check for any leaks: Look for any signs of leaks in your cooling system. If you notice a leak, you may need to have it repaired by a professional mechanic.
6. Restart your engine: Once you’ve checked your coolant levels and looked for leaks, start your engine again. If your engine is still running hot, it must be inspected by a professional mechanic.

Preventing Engine Overheating in the Future

Now that you know what to do when your engine is overheating, preventing it from happening again is important. Here are some tips for avoiding engine overheating:

• Check your coolant levels regularly: If you notice they’re low, top it off.
• Check your oil levels regularly: Low oil levels can cause your engine to run hot. Make sure to check your oil levels regularly and top off as needed.
• Have your cooling system inspected regularly: Have a professional mechanic check it regularly to ensure it’s functioning correctly.
• Replace your thermostat and water pump as needed: If your thermostat or water pump is malfunctioning, it can cause your engine to overheat. Have them inspected and replaced as needed.
• Keep your radiator clean: A dirty or clogged radiator can cause your engine to overheat. Make sure to clean your radiator regularly.
• Don’t overload your car: Overloading your vehicle can strain your engine and cause it to overheat. Make sure to stay within your car’s weight limits.

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