What do you do if your vehicle begins to overheat?

When a vehicle begins to overheat, the most effective and safest action is to pull over safely and turn off the engine. This allows the vehicle to cool down without risking further damage to the engine. Continuing to drive while the engine is overheating can lead to severe engine damage, including warped cylinder heads or blown gaskets, which can result in costly repairs.

Pulling over also allows for a careful assessment of the situation. After the engine has cooled, the driver can check coolant levels and look for any obvious signs of leaks or other issues before deciding on the next steps. Ignoring the overheating warning can turn a manageable problem into a significantly worse one. While some might think driving faster or keeping the windows open might help cool the engine, these methods do not address the root cause and can exacerbate the situation.