Overheating Car: Top Tips to Remember

Have you ever experienced driving an overheating car? Smoke comes out of the hood making it difficult for you to see through the windshield and pretty soon, the temperature gauge shows an overheating warning. All drivers should know very well what to do when they find themselves in this kind of situation. Although not as common as it was decades ago, even new cars of today can overheat.

Thankfully, for as long as you can stay in touch through your mobile phone, help can be on its way in no time. However, it would be very helpful if you already know what to do on your own. The NSC (National Safety Council) lists down the steps you need to follow in case your car overheats. Keep the tips below in mind to ensure that you’re safe while solving the problem or while waiting for help to come.

1. Park your car on the safe side of the road and turn off your engine. Some drivers would still be curious about where the smoke is coming from and would open the hood and pour water over the engine – this is wrong. Get off your car and call for roadside assistance when you’re not sure what to do.

2. Open the hood only when your car has cooled down completely. You will also see that the temperature gauge would be moving down to cool.

3. Look for the coolant reservoir under your hood and check the radiator’s coolant level.

4. Try feeling the radiator cap and check whether it is already cool. Do not open it when it is still hot. For extra precaution, use a towel or rag to protect your hand when you twist off the cap. Avoid hot steam because this can cause injury.

5. If you have spare coolant in stock, fill up the radiator to the top and place the cap back on.

6. Check all heater hoses including the upper and lower hose attached to the radiator for any damages, blockages or disconnections.

7. Restart your car’s engine. Check the temperature gauge regularly and be cautious if it crosses the optimal mark. When this happens, pull over and turn the engine off.

When you need help on the road while driving in Augusta, Augusta Tow Truck is here to help. For many years, we helped drivers of overheating cars, cars with engine troubles and flat tires, and more. Aside from tow truck service Augusta, we also offer timely roadside assistance at fair prices. Save our number on your phone so you may reach us anytime you need us. You may also call us at 706-705-5270 to get a free quote.

---