Getting to know your Vehicles Engine Cooling System
HOW TO PREVENT AN OVERHEATED CAR ENGINE
Take care of your car, and it’ll take care of you. The best way to prevent an overheating car engine is to have regular coolant flushes and exchanges performed on your car and stay up to date with radiator maintenance as recommended by manufacturer. Routine inspections can also help you fix any potential radiator or engine issues before they worsen.
SIGNS YOUR ENGINE IS OVERHEATING
If you’re able to take steps to cool your engine before it overheats to the point of failing, you may reduce the risk of irreversible engine damage. But first, you've got to notice the symptoms of overheating, which can include:
Steam (which can look like smoke) coming from under the car hood.
An engine temperature gauge on your dashboard that spikes to "H" or into the red. (Engine temperature gauge symbols vary, so consult your owner's manual.)
A strange smell coming from the engine area. For example, leaking coolant can smell sweet while leaking oil might smell more burnt.
As soon as you notice the engine overheating, contact us 215-357-9507 so we can assist.
WHAT NOT TO DO WHEN YOUR ENGINE OVERHEATS
1. DON’T PANIC.
Your engine isn’t keeping its cool, but you can!
2. DON’T KEEP DRIVING.
If your engine is overheating but still running, you're not doing it any favors by staying on the road. Sure, you may be able to get to your destination before it gives out entirely, but you may cause significant (and costly) damage by pushing your engine too far.
3. DON’T OPEN THE HOOD IMMEDIATELY.
Once you've pulled over, wait for the engine to cool before popping the hood to check things out. Opening the hood immediately can put you at risk of burns or injuries from spewing steam or smoke. Patience is key. Wait until the engine temperature gauge settles before opening the hood.
4. DON’T LET THE ISSUE LINGER.
An overheating engine won't resolve on its own, even if it seems to be fixed after you add a little coolant. It will only get worse if left unaddressed. Let us get to the root of the issue and help save your engine.
