What to do immediately
- Turn off the A/C and turn the heater on full hot with the fan on high. It feels wrong in Florida, but it pulls heat away from the engine.
- Pull over safely as soon as you can and turn the engine off.
- Do not open the radiator cap or coolant reservoir while the engine is hot. The coolant is under pressure and can cause serious burns.
- Wait at least 30 minutes for the engine to cool before checking anything.
- If you see steam, a large leak or the gauge went into the red, do not keep driving. Call for a tow.
Common causes of overheating
- Low coolant from a leaking hose, radiator, water pump or gasket
- A radiator cooling fan that does not turn on
- A stuck thermostat
- A failing water pump
- A clogged radiator or old, worn-out coolant
Why you should not "just add water and go"
Adding coolant may get you a few miles, but if there is a leak or a failed fan, the engine will overheat again. Repeated overheating can warp the cylinder head or damage the head gasket, which are among the most expensive engine repairs.
An engine diagnosis finds the cause: a pressure test for leaks, a check of the fan, thermostat and water pump. At McCoy Enterprises we explain what we found and give you an estimate before any work begins.
Need a tow?
If the engine overheated, the safest option is to have it towed to a repair shop rather than drive it. McCoy Towing is available 24/7 at (407) 305-0088 and can bring the car straight to our shop on South Orange Ave in Orlando.
Stuck right now? McCoy Towing answers 24/7 and can bring your car to our Orlando shop, where we diagnose it and get your approval before any repair.
This guide gives general information. Every vehicle is different: if something feels unsafe, stop driving and call for help.