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Heat & Drought
If Your Car Overheats
A climbing temperature gauge means stop soon — an overheated engine can fail fast and dangerously.
What to do
- 1Turn OFF the AC and turn the heater on full — it pulls heat from the engine.
- 2Pull over safely and shut the engine off; let it cool at least 30 minutes.
- 3Never open a hot radiator cap — scalding steam can erupt.
- 4Once cool, check coolant level; top up if low and you have it.
- 5If it keeps overheating, stop and get help — driving on can warp the engine.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Opening the radiator while hot
- Pouring cold water on a hot engine
- Driving on a red-hot gauge
Good to know
- Keep a jug of water in summer — for the radiator and for you.
Continue here — more Heat & Drought