There’s nothing scarier than seeing steam pour out from under your car’s hood while you’re stuck in traffic or on a long drive. An overheating engine is not just inconvenient — it’s a serious issue that can cause permanent engine damage if not handled properly.
At Grand City Auto Service, we want you to stay safe and informed. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide on what to do if your car starts overheating.
Step 1: Turn Off the AC and Turn On the Heater
It may sound odd, but turning on your car’s heater pulls heat away from the engine and releases it into the cabin, which may help cool the engine temporarily. Turn off the AC immediately as it adds load to the engine.
Step 2: Safely Pull Over
As soon as it’s safe, move your vehicle to the side of the road and turn off the engine. Driving further can cause more damage. Put on your hazard lights and stay calm.
Step 3: Do NOT Open the Hood Immediately
We get it — your first instinct might be to check what’s going on under the hood. But wait at least 15-20 minutes for the engine to cool down. Opening the hood too early can expose you to hot steam or boiling coolant, which can cause serious burns.
Step 4: Check Coolant Levels (If Safe to Do So)
Once the engine is cooler and there’s no steam:
- Carefully open the hood
- Check the coolant reservoir (usually translucent with level markings)
- If the level is low and you have coolant, top it up
⚠️ Never open the radiator cap while the engine is hot.
Step 5: Look for Visible Leaks or Issues
Check for:
- Leaking coolant on the ground
- Broken hoses
- Loose or broken radiator cap
- Steam or odd smells from the engine
If you notice any of these, it’s best not to drive the car further.
Step 6: Call for Professional Help
If the overheating doesn’t stop or you’re unsure of what caused it, call roadside assistance or tow your car to a professional repair shop like Grand City Auto Service. Driving an overheated engine can cause head gasket failure, warped cylinders, and costly repairs.
Common Causes of Overheating
- Low coolant level or coolant leak
- Broken thermostat
- Radiator issues
- Failing water pump
- Malfunctioning radiator fan
- Clogged hoses
How to Prevent Overheating in the Future
✅ Regular coolant top-ups
✅ Scheduled radiator flushes
✅ Routine inspections of belts, hoses, and fans
✅ Professional diagnostics at least twice a year
At Grand City Auto Service, we offer complete engine diagnostics, cooling system checks, and preventive maintenance services to keep your car in perfect shape all year round.
Visit Us for a Cooling System Check Today!
Don’t wait for your car to overheat on the road. Visit Grand City Auto Service and let our certified technicians inspect your vehicle thoroughly.
45 Al Marabea’ St – Al Quoz – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
tel:+971547116181
www.grandcityautoservice.com
