What to do immediately
If your temperature gauge spikes or you see steam, act fast to protect the engine:
- Turn off the AC and turn the heater on full to pull heat from the engine
- Pull over safely and turn off the engine
- Never open the radiator cap while hot — pressurized coolant can scald
- Wait at least 30 minutes before checking coolant
- Call a mechanic rather than driving further
Common causes of overheating
Overheating is almost always a cooling-system failure. The usual suspects are coolant leaks, a stuck thermostat, a failed water pump, a broken radiator fan, a clogged radiator, or a blown head gasket.
Why you shouldn't keep driving
Running an engine hot can warp the cylinder head, blow the head gasket, or seize the engine entirely — turning a few-hundred-dollar repair into a replacement engine.
Prevention
Check coolant levels monthly in summer, inspect hoses for cracks or soft spots, and flush coolant on the schedule in your owner's manual.
We'll come to you
Aaron's Auto Repair diagnoses and repairs overheating problems on-site, 24/7, anywhere within 50 miles of Irving.