When your car is hot stuff... but not the kind of hot you wanted.

The weather may be frosty, and snow may be coming our way, but your car, unfortunately, seems to be hot. And, not the kind of hot you'd hoped for. Instead you're dealing with a car that's overheating.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Your Car Overheats

An overheating vehicle can be a potentially dangerous situation. And, ignoring the warning signs or making mistakes during this critical moment can lead to severe engine damage, costly repairs. So, the experts at Meineke on Rodney Road in York are here to discuss what to avoid when your vehicle starts to overheat.

Don't Ignore the Warning Signs

One of the biggest mistakes you can make is to ignore the initial signs of overheating. So, if you notice the temperature gauge rising or see steam coming from under the hood, it's crucial not to dismiss these indicators. Because, ignoring these warnings can lead to more severe problems, such as a blown head gasket or engine failure.

Don't Continue to Drive 

When your car's temperature gauge is in the red zone, it's tempting to think you can push it a little further to reach your destination. However, continuing to drive with an overheating engine is a surefire way to cause extensive damage. So, pull over to a safe location immediately and turn off the engine to allow it to cool down.

Don't Open the Radiator Cap Right Away

Never attempt to open the radiator cap while the engine is still hot. Because, the coolant system is pressurized, and releasing the cap too soon can result in hot coolant spraying out. And, this can cause burns and injuries. Therefore, wait until the engine has cooled down before checking or adding coolant.

Don't Pour Cold Water on a Hot Engine

While it might seem like a good idea to pour cold water on the overheating engine, doing so can cause the metal components to contract rapidly. And this could lead to cracks and further damage. Instead, wait for the engine to cool naturally or use a cool, damp cloth to speed up the process.

Don't Use the Wrong Coolant or Water

If you need to top up the coolant level, make sure to use the correct type recommended by your vehicle's manufacturer. Because, using the wrong coolant or, worse, just pouring water without coolant can affect the engine's ability to cool properly. This is especially true in the extreme temperatures we are experiencing in York.

Don't Hesitate to Seek Professional Help

Don't attempt to diagnose and fix the overheating issue yourself without seeking professional assistance. Because, attempting to fix complex engine issues without the right knowledge can worsen the situation.

Don't Forgo Regular Maintenance for your Car or Truck

Regular maintenance, including checking coolant levels and monitoring your vehicle's temperature gauge, can also go a long way in preventing overheating issues in the first place.

Meineke in York is here to help if you Need help with an Overheating Vehicle

If the New Cumberland location is not convenient, Meineke has 13 car care centers in south central Pennsylvania:

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