WHY ENGINES OVERHEAT IN HOT WEATHER
High temperatures increase the strain on your engine, especially during long drives, uphill routes, or heavy traffic. A failing cooling system, low coolant levels, or blocked radiators can quickly lead to overheating.
CHECK YOUR COOLANT LEVEL REGULARLY
Coolant is your engine’s main defense against overheating. Make sure the coolant reservoir is filled to the correct level and topped off with the recommended mixture of antifreeze and water.
INSPECT RADIATOR AND HOSES
Over time, hoses can crack, leak, or become clogged. Regularly inspect them for wear and tear. A dirty or damaged radiator can also reduce cooling efficiency, so keep it clean and free of debris.
USE THE A/C WISELY
While air conditioning is a summer essential, it adds load to the engine. On extremely hot days or during traffic jams, consider switching off the A/C temporarily if you notice temperature spikes on the dashboard.
AVOID STOP-AND-GO TRAFFIC WHEN POSSIBLE
City traffic can trap hot air under the hood. If possible, drive during cooler parts of the day or take routes with less congestion to reduce engine stress.
KEEP AN EYE ON TEMPERATURE GAUGES
Most cars have a dashboard temperature gauge. If it starts rising above normal, it’s a warning sign. Pull over safely, turn off the engine, and let it cool before checking anything under the hood.
DON’T IGNORE WARNING SIGNS
Steam from the hood, unusual smells, or dashboard warning lights shouldn’t be ignored. These are urgent signs that the engine is overheating and needs immediate attention.
SERVICE YOUR COOLING SYSTEM REGULARLY
Schedule regular maintenance for the cooling system, including flushing the radiator and replacing coolant every few years, or as recommended by your vehicle manufacturer.
PARK IN SHADE WHEN POSSIBLE
Keeping your car parked in a shaded area reduces the internal and engine temperature before you even turn the key. Use sunshades to protect the dashboard and reduce heat buildup.
EMERGENCY TIP: WHAT TO DO IF YOUR ENGINE OVERHEATS
If your engine overheats, turn off the A/C, crank the heater to maximum to draw heat away from the engine, and pull over as soon as it’s safe. Never open the radiator cap while the engine is hot — wait until it cools.