Home / Symptom Diagnosis / Engine overheating
Engine overheating
High — fix right away
The temperature gauge climbs into the red, or you see steam and smell hot coolant from under the hood. The heater may blow cold air.
Possible causes
- Low coolant level — Most likely · Codes: P0117P0118
Check first: When the engine is cold, check the coolant level in the reservoir. A low level, plus a leak under the car, is the most common cause. - Bad thermostat — Most likely · Codes: P0128
Check first: Watch the gauge. If the temperature climbs fast and the heater blows cold, the thermostat may be stuck closed. - Failing cooling fan or water pump — Possible · Codes: P0480
Check first: With the engine hot, listen for the cooling fan. If the fan never runs, the fan motor or relay may be bad.
Questions, answered
What usually causes this?
The most likely causes are: Low coolant level; Bad thermostat; Failing cooling fan or water pump. If you are not sure what is wrong, have it checked by a qualified technician.
Is it safe to drive with this symptom?
No — stop driving and get it checked. This symptom can mean a serious problem.
Not repair advice. If you are not sure what is wrong, have it checked by a qualified technician. Cars differ by make, model and year.
← Back to all symptoms
