Is Your Car Overheating? Here’s What to Watch For & What to Do
Overheating can lead to serious engine damage—so it’s important to act fast and stay informed. Here's how you can tell if your vehicle is overheating and what to do next:
Signs Your Vehicle Might Be Overheating:
Temperature gauge rising into the red zone
Steam or smoke coming from under the hood
Strange smells (sweet from coolant or burnt oil)
Dashboard warning lights turning on
Reduced engine performance
What To Do If Your Car Overheats:
Turn Off the A/C & Turn On the Heater – It sounds backwards, but it helps pull heat away from your engine.
Pull Over Safely – As soon as it’s safe, park and turn off the engine.
Do NOT Open the Hood Right Away – Wait at least 15–30 minutes. Opening a hot radiator can be dangerous.
Check Coolant Levels (Once Cool) – If it’s low, that might be the cause.
Call Rexburg Car Shop – We’ll help diagnose and fix the problem before it becomes costly.
Pro Tip: Regular maintenance, like checking coolant levels and replacing old hoses, can prevent overheating before it starts.
