Engine Overheating Midway? Do This Fast and Avoid Major Damage

New Delhi: If the car engine overheats, do these 7 things immediately—the engine will be saved and the accident will be averted. Be it summer or a long journey, engine overheating is the most common and dangerous problem. Don't panic if the temperature gauge goes into the red zone or smoke starts coming out of the hood. If you follow the 7 steps given below, you can save your engine from losses worth lakhs.

1. Stop the car immediately; do not stop the engine

As soon as overheating is noticed, first stop the car at a safe place. But do not stop the engine immediately. By doing this the internal temperature increases further. First keep the engine on for 2-3 minutes, and turn the AC heater on full blower. It increases cooling by running the radiator fan faster.

2. Open the hood, but do not touch the radiator cap at all

Open the hood 10-15 minutes after the car stops to allow air to pass. But never open the radiator cap. 180-200 degree hot coolant may burst out with pressure, a serious burn risk. All car companies give the same warning.

3. Check coolant leakage

If water/greenish-pink liquid is falling under the car, then there is a coolant leak. Common causes are burst hose pipes, radiator leaks, or head gasket failure. Take a photo and show it to the mechanic.

4. Check coolant level (after cooling)

Open the radiator/reserve tank lid only after the engine has completely cooled (at least 1-2 hours). If the level is low, then just add distilled water or company-recommended coolant. Scale settles with ordinary water.

5. Get fan belt and thermostat checked

If the coolant is fine but it keeps overheating, then the fan belt may be loose/broken or the thermostat may be faulty. If the thermostat gets stuck, coolant circulation stops.

6. Switch off AC, turn on heater

Switch off the AC immediately as soon as it starts overheating. This increases the engine load by 15-20%. Turn the heater on full. Heat will come into the cabin, but the engine temperature will drop rapidly.

7. Do not drive more than 5 km; get towing done

If the temperature is not normal, then do not drive more than 4-5 km. The engine may seize, or a head gasket may blow. Repairs can go up to Rs 2-5 lakh. It is better to call a crane and send it to the service center.

3 most common causes of overheating

• Driving without stopping for long periods of time (especially in summer)
• Coolant leakage or low level
• Radiator fan/thermostat bad

Next time you set out on a journey, be sure to check the coolant level—5 minutes of work can save lakhs!