The Do's and Don'ts When You Have an overheated engine

As a vehicle owner, it's your responsibility to maintain it, as an overheated engine can lead to many problems. 

No one wants to experience the frustration of their car unexpectedly overheating while they're driving. 

If you're like most vehicle owners, it's inevitable that your engine will eventually overheat at least once throughout its lifespan. 

Knowing what actions to take when your car overheats can save you time and money!

Don't Open the Hood When it's Hot

When your engine has been running for a long time, there can be serious consequences if you open the hood when it is hot. 

A hot hood can cause third-degree burns from contact. 

It's important to realize that the heat inside the engine is more intense than the air temperature outside of the car. 

Once the engine is cooled down, you can open the hood of an overheated vehicle easier.

If your car won't start or is suffering from some other problems, an overheated engine could be the problem. 

Pull Over Immediately 

When you're driving, it's important to pay attention to your car's temperature gauge.

If you notice that it's starting to climb into the danger zone, don't ignore it! 

Pull over immediately and turn off the overheated engine. 

Giving your engine time to cool down is crucial to preventing more serious damage from happening. 

Although you may be in a hurry, take into consideration the long-term costs of an overheated engine. 

If you're not comfortable diagnosing the problem yourself, call a mobile mechanic or tow truck. 

Mobile Mechanics 

A mobile mechanic is able to attend to your needs faster and more conveniently than a mechanic shop could. 

They can access the issue and provide you with a detailed plan of what to do next in regard to an overheated engine.

From there, the issue can be repaired. 

You won't be stuck on the side of a road when you utilize a mobile mechanic. 

Check the Antifreeze Levels

One of the things you can do is check the antifreeze levels. The process is fairly easy. 

Just be sure to check it when it is cooled down. 

One of the problems associated with an overheated engine is the radiator. 

If the fluid is too low, the engine could overheat or seize up completely. 

On the other hand, if there is too much fluid, it can lead to other problematic areas in the engine. 

Always Have Engine Coolant On Hand

It may seem like a quick and easy fix to add water to your radiator if you're low on coolant.

It's important to use the proper engine coolant to avoid causing even more damage to your engine. 

Without coolant, your engine can overheat and potentially lead to costly repairs. 

Also, using plain water can cause corrosion and rust buildup in the radiator and other parts of the cooling system. 

So, if you're dealing with an overheated engine, be sure to use the proper coolant concentrate when topping off your radiator.

Cracks and Leaks in the Hoses 

One of the issues of an overheated engine is cracks and leaks to the hoses.

 It's important to regularly inspect your vehicle's hoses for any cracks or leaks.

Exposure to high temperatures and wear and tear can cause hoses to deteriorate over time. 

This can lead to potential leaks that can consequently lead to coolant loss. 

Keeping an eye out for any visible damage and replacing worn hoses can save you from costly repairs and prevent breakdowns. 

Temperature Gauge in the Red Zone 

Another way you can tell if you're dealing with an overheated engine is if the temperature gauge is in the red zone. 

Don't keep driving if the gauge is in the danger zone. You could be taking on more problems by driving on. 

By continuing to drive, your engine can become severely damaged, leaving you with hefty repair costs. 

Overheating can cause parts of your engine to warp, and in some cases, even cause a fire. 

In this scenario, the best thing to do is to call a mobile mechanic immediately!

What to Do Whenever Your Vehicle Breaks Down 

It's never easy to deal with an overheated engine and other related vehicle issues. 

Seems like more of an inconvenience! But there is a light at the end of the tunnel. 

You now have options as opposed to being stuck on the side of a busy roadway or in the middle of nowhere. 

Mokanex, located in Pittsburgh, is the mobile mechanic to use when your car isn't cooperating. 

They do more than repairs; they provide peace of mind!

Contact a Mobile Mechanic for Guidance 

In order to prevent your car from overheating, it is important to pay close attention to these tips. 

If your engine does become too hot, be sure to pull over as soon as possible and turn off the engine. 

Don't open the hood until the engine has cooled off, and always double-check that you have enough antifreeze before getting back on the road. 

Also, do not add plain water to your radiator without coolant concentrate, and inspect the hoses for any cracks or leaks. 

The last thing you'll want to deal with is an overheated engine without guidance. 

 Following these steps will help ensure that your vehicle will stay in peak condition so you can enjoy a safe and smooth ride.

Contact Mokanex at (412)596-5743