Help, My Car is Overheating???

For many around the country temperatures are starting to cool as we approach fall.  Not here in San Diego!  The heat hangs around well into October and sometimes stays through Christmas (anyone else worn flip flops and shorts Christmas Day?!).  Now that summer vacations are over and you're commuting to and from work again or doing all the school and sports runs lets talk about what to do if your vehicle overheats.  I'm going to start with the number 1 rule: If your vehicle is overheating and smoke is coming out from under the hood, DO NOT open the hood right away.  There are so many possibilities and we do not want you to get sprayed with fluid that is over 200 degrees in temperature due to a cap gone or hose blown.

Lets first talk about what you can do to help prevent your vehicle from overheating.

• Ensure that your vehicle is up to date on maintenance to avoid engine trouble.  There are several systems in your vehicle that are designed to regulate temperatures.
• Engine oil provides lubrication for the the moving parts in the engine.  The lubrication reduces friction and heat.  Having oil changes done on a regular interval will help ensure that you have the proper amount of oil running through the engine and that the oil is clean.
• Your vehicles cooling system consists of many parts including belts, fans, and fluids.  Over time the cooling system will develop scale deposits which restrict coolant circulation and will require the cooling system to be flushed.  Frequent checks of the level and condition of the coolant fluid is highly recommended.

So what to do when your engine does overheat.

• Pullover
• Do Not open the hood of the car
• Allow the vehicle to cool for 30 minutes or until the temperature gauge shows a normal temperature (out of the red)
• Check the coolant levels.  The reservoir is usually transparent and near the radiator. If the levels are low, refill the reservoir.  I always carry an extra bottle in my trunk.
• Check hoses for leaks.  A crack in the hose causing the leak might be visible.  If not, make sure that the hoses are cooled to the touch and you can gently squeeze the hoses to check for resistance.
• If you choose to remove the radiator cap, do so with extreme caution.  Use a rag to protect your hand and tilt the cap away from you.  Never remove the radiator cap when the vehicle is hot.  Never pour water into a hot radiator.

If you are worried about performing any of the above listed items if your vehicle overheats, that is what we are here for.  Give us a call and we can have your vehicle towed to the shop!  Need help with the to-do list to prevent your vehicle from overheating?  We are here to help with that too!!  Our experienced mechanics can perform any and all of your vehicle maintenance or repair needs.

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