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Engine

Car Overheating? What to Do Right Now (and Why It Happens)

An overheating engine can go from warning to major damage in minutes. Here's what to do.

On the road

  1. Turn off the A/C and turn the heater on full hot — it pulls heat away from the engine.
  2. Pull over safely and turn off the engine.
  3. Don't open the radiator cap while it's hot. Coolant is under pressure and can cause serious burns.
  4. Let it cool at least 30 minutes, then check the coolant reservoir.
  5. Call for a tow if it overheats again.

Common causes

  • Low coolant from a leak (hoses, radiator, water pump)
  • Cooling fan not turning on
  • Stuck thermostat
  • Failing water pump
  • Head gasket problems (white smoke, coolant loss with no visible leak)
  • After an accident: a damaged radiator or condenser in front

Why not keep driving

Overheating can warp the cylinder head and blow the head gasket — turning a hose repair into an engine repair.

FAQ

Can I add water instead of coolant?

In an emergency, water can get you to a shop. Have the system properly filled with the right coolant afterward.

This article is general information, not legal or insurance advice. Rules and policies change — check your policy and the official source, or ask us.

*Deductible assistance of up to $1,000 is available only on insurance claims where your insurance company has approved a repair amount of $8,000 or more and the repair is performed in accordance with that insurer-approved estimate (California Penal Code § 551(b)). We never increase a repair estimate to cover a deductible. Not available on customer-pay repairs. Ask us for details before your repair begins.

**Free computer diagnostic scan: we read and explain your vehicle's trouble codes at no charge, no purchase required. If the problem needs in-depth testing (labor), we give you a written estimate and get your approval before any paid work, as California law requires.

†Warranty: limited lifetime warranty on our collision, body and paint workmanship for as long as you own the vehicle; 24 months / 24,000 miles (whichever comes first) on mechanical repairs, parts and labor. Not covered: normal wear, new damage, abuse or neglect, rust or chips from road debris, and customer-supplied parts. Warranty terms are written on your invoice.

‡Accident towing: you pay nothing out of pocket when you have collision coverage or the other driver is at fault — we pay the tow and bill the insurance company. If no insurance covers the tow, we tell you the price before the truck is sent.

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