Engine Overheating Response

Warning Signs

• Temperature gauge moves into the red zone
• Dashboard warning light (thermometer icon) illuminates
• Steam or vapour from under the bonnet
• Sweet smell (coolant) or burning smell
• Loss of power or engine running rough

Immediate Actions

1. Turn off the A/C immediately — it adds load to the engine
2. Turn the heater to MAX with fan on full — this draws heat away from the engine
3. Pull over safely as soon as possible — signal, find a safe spot
4. Do NOT turn off the engine immediately — let it idle for 1–2 minutes with the heater running to help cool down
5. Then turn off the engine
6. Turn on hazard lights

After Stopping

1. Wait at least 15–20 minutes before opening the bonnet — components are dangerously hot
2. NEVER open the coolant cap on a hot engine — pressurised steam can cause severe burns
3. After the engine has cooled, carefully open the bonnet
4. Check the coolant reservoir:
   • If empty or very low: there may be a leak
   • Look under the car for coolant puddles (green, pink, or orange fluid)
   • Check hoses visually for cracks, splits, or disconnections
5. If you have coolant or water: carefully top up the reservoir (engine must be cool)
6. Restart the engine and watch the temperature gauge:
   • If it stays normal: drive carefully to a garage
   • If it rises again quickly: turn off and call for a tow

Do NOT

• Drive with the temperature gauge in the red
• Open the coolant cap on a hot engine
• Pour cold water over a hot engine (can crack the block)
• Ignore the warning light — overheating can destroy the engine (warped head, blown gasket)

Common Causes

Cause	Signs
Low coolant	Reservoir empty; possible leak underneath
Failed thermostat	Sudden overheat with no coolant loss
Broken water pump	Coolant not circulating; possible whining noise
Blocked radiator	Gradual overheating, especially in traffic
Failed radiator fan	Overheats in traffic but OK at speed
Broken drive belt	Multiple systems affected; squealing before failure

When to Call a Tow

• Coolant is leaking and you can't top up enough to drive
• Temperature rises again after topping up
• Steam continues after cooling period
• Warning light stays on after restart
• You see oil mixing with coolant (milky residue on oil cap — head gasket failure)

Notes

Israeli Summer: Overheating risk is highest May–September, especially in traffic. Keep coolant topped up and ensure the radiator fan is working. Desert routes (Dead Sea, Negev) are particularly risky — carry 2L of coolant as a precaution.