Engine Overheating — Causes and the Right Response
Engine overheating is dangerous and can damage it fast. Acting correctly right away protects the engine from costly harm.
What to do immediately
Turn off the AC and turn on the heater (it pulls heat away), pull over safely and stop the engine, and never open a hot radiator cap. Let it cool before checking.
Common causes
Low or leaking coolant, a thermostat stuck closed, a non-working cooling fan, a weak water pump, or a clogged radiator.
Prevention
Check coolant level regularly and look for leaks. Mowtar AI reads live coolant temperature and alerts as it nears danger.
FAQ
Can I keep driving a bit?
No — driving on while overheating can warp the head/gasket at huge cost. Stop immediately.
Pour cold water on a hot engine?
No, the thermal shock can crack metal. Wait until it cools.