Car Overheating: What to Do Immediately

Introduction: Car Overheating Is an Emergency

If your car temperature gauge suddenly shoots up or a red temperature warning light appears, your car is overheating and this is not something you should ignore.

Many drivers panic and continue driving “just a bit more.” Unfortunately, even a few minutes of overheating can cause severe engine damage, including a blown head gasket or a warped engine block.

What Causes a Car to Overheat?

Before we get into emergency steps, here are the most common reasons cars overheat:

Coolant leaks
Low coolant level
Faulty radiator or cooling fan
Water pump failure
Thermostat malfunction
Blocked radiator or cooling system
Engine oil too low or degraded

Singapore’s hot climate makes cooling system issues show up faster.

What to Do Immediately When Your Car Overheats

Step 1: Turn Off the Air-Conditioning

This reduces load on the engine and helps slow the temperature rise.

Step 2: Pull Over Safely and Stop Driving

As soon as it’s safe:

Signal
Pull over
Switch off the engine

Continuing to drive while overheating can destroy the engine.

Step 3: Let the Engine Cool Down

Wait at least 10–30 minutes before doing anything else.

Never open the radiator cap while hot, pressurized coolant can cause serious burns.

Step 4: Check Coolant Level (Only After Cooling)

Once the engine is cool:

Check the coolant reservoir
Look for leaks under the car

If coolant is low and you have the correct type, you may top it up temporarily.

Step 5: Call for Assistance or Visit a Workshop

If the temperature warning reappears after topping up, do not drive further. Tow the vehicle or get professional help.

Uncategorized