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.
A 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 tow it 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 is available 24/7. We bring your car to our Orlando shop, 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.