Engine overheating: how to act correctly

Does the engine temperature rise into the red zone while driving and the coolant temperature warning light comes on? If your engine overheats, it's important that you keep a cool head. We explain what you should do in such a case and how you can best prepare yourself to minimize the damage and the associated pain. An important note in advance: Never open the radiator or coolant tank while the engine is still hot, as there is a risk of burns from the pressurized cooling system!

Reasons for the motor overheating

Does the engine temperature rise into the red zone while driving and the coolant temperature warning light comes on? If your engine overheats, it's important that you keep a cool head. We explain what you should do in such a case and how you can best prepare for it so that the damage and the associated pain is as minimal as possible. An important note in advance: Never open the radiator or coolant tank while the engine is still hot, as the pressurized cooling system can cause the engine to burst. Risk of burns exists!

Measures in the event of engine overheating

If the coolant temperature rises above the normal operating temperature, this is a clear sign of overheating. If you notice that the coolant temperature rises above the normal operating temperature while driving, it is important that you react correctly and quickly. Immediately switch the heater fan in the vehicle cabin to the highest and warmest setting and pull over at the first safe place to turn off the overheated engine. In vehicles built from 2004 onwards, the water pump and fan continue to run after the engine has been switched off and accelerate the cooling process. In older vehicles, it is best to leave the engine running for a few minutes with the fan heater switched on before switching it off to cool down.

After a cooling time of at least 30 minutes, you can open the hood and check the coolant level. To do this, open the radiator or coolant tank slowly and carefully, as the system may still be under pressure and the coolant may still be very hot. Top up the coolant to the specified mark and only continue driving if the engine remains within the normal temperature range.

Can the engine overheat despite a sufficient coolant level?

Yes, it can. If no external cooling water leakage is detected and the cooling water is possibly leaking in the area of the Cylinder head gasket If coolant leaks, there could be a hairline crack in the engine cooling duct. This causes cooling water to overflow into the oil circuit or combustion chamber, impairing cooling performance. Hot combustion gases can enter the cooling system and cause the engine to overheat, even if sufficient cooling water is available. Oil in the cooling water also worsens the cooling performance.

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Check the cooling water level regularly

Coolant loss is one of the main reasons for the engine overheating. Make sure that the coolant level is checked regularly and that there are no external leaks in the cooling system. Particularly with older vehicles, it may be advisable not to switch off the engine immediately after a journey, but to leave it idling for a short time. If you notice water leaking from under the vehicle, you should check the radiator, the water pump and the coolant hoses for leaks. If necessary, top up any missing coolant and make sure that the system is working properly before you continue driving.

Long-term solutions and precautionary measures

To avoid future overheating, you should take a few precautions and carry out regular maintenance:

Regular maintenanceCheck or have your cooling system checked regularly as part of an inspection and maintain it according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
Top up coolant regularlyMake sure that the coolant level is always within the recommended range. A brief visual check of the coolant tank and the coolant level should be carried out, especially before long journeys.
Clean the radiator and fanKeep the radiator and the pedestal fan free of external dirt and deposits to ensure optimum cooling performance.
Check thermostat and water pumpHave these important components checked regularly and replaced if necessary.

Myths about the engine overheating

There are many myths and misconceptions surrounding engine overheating. Here are some of them and the truth behind them:

"You can just keep driving if the engine overheats." Wrong! Continuing to drive without knowing the cause of the overheating can lead to serious engine damage.
"Water is just as good as coolant." Water can be used in an emergency in the short term, but does not offer the same protection against overheating and frost as coolant.

"An overheated engine always means the end of the engine." Not necessarily! If you act quickly and correctly, you can often avoid serious consequential damage.

Possible damage

Overheating can cause damage to various engine components, especially cylinders and pistons. This damage can be irreparable and destroy the engine. In some cases, an overheated engine can even cause a fire. Overheating can also cause damage to other components of the vehicle, especially the car battery, tires and brakes. Overheated engines also lead to accidents, especially if they occur suddenly or if you lose control of the vehicle.

Another aspect you should consider is oil loss. Oil loss reduces the lubrication of important engine parts and their cooling, which increases friction and ultimately leads to overheating and major damage to the engine.

Our conclusion

Engine overheating can affect anyone, anywhere and at any time. But with the right measures, you can limit the damage and continue driving safely afterwards. By knowing the most common causes, looking out for the signs and acting accordingly, you can save yourself a lot of stress and avoid expensive repairs. Don't forget to have regular maintenance work carried out and always check the condition of your cooling system. This will keep you safe on the road and your engine in perfect condition.

Further contributions:

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