How to Cool Your Car Down When it Overheats (Updated)

]Editor’s note: This post was originally published on 8/26/16 and has been updated for accuracy and comprehension.

Summer’s coming soon and you need this info because an overheated engine is a dangerous thing.

An engine that’s too hot damages your car, and it can cost you thousands to repair – if fixing it is even possible or cost effective.

With summer on the way – when temperatures can stay in the very-hot-and-humid range – you need to know how to keep your car’s engine in the safety zone.

Always watch your car’s temperature gauge. If you see the needle moving into the danger zone, or the red area, pull the car over immediately.

What to do in an overheating situation

After you’ve pulled over, follow these steps:

• Most importantly, turn the engine off.
• Release the hood by pulling the lever located under the dashboard.
• Once the engine has cooled, open the hood.
• Locate the coolant reservoir tank (which looks like a plastic jug) and check it.
• Use a rag to open the radiator cap slowly. Don’t perform this step until the engine is completely cool. You can burn yourself by opening the cap when the car is still hot, as hot coolant or steam will pour out of it.
• Assess the radiator’s coolant. Is it empty? If so, fill the radiator with coolant all the way to the top.
• Put the cap back on the radiator.
• Inspect the radiator hoses and make sure none of them have burst.

After you’ve performed each of these steps, you can safely restart your car, BUT keep your eye on the temperature gauge.

If the needle starts approaching the red zone, turn the car off again and call for help.

On the other hand, if it stays in the safe area and you’re good to go!

If you need more information about how to protect your car, contact the friendly folks at Serra Acura.

We can also help you find the perfect Acura to fit your needs and your budget – because we’re all about People Pleasin’.

Just give us a call or stop by!