For thorough auto repair services in Ruidoso, NM, call the Sierra Blanca Motors service department at (575) 315-0145!
Why Is My Car Overheating?
When your vehicle overheats, it can be dangerous and put you in harm's way. It can also permanently damage your motor vehicle if you do not handle it correctly. Overheating can melt various parts of your vehicle including cylinder heads, belts, and wiring.
In this blog, we will let you know the telltale signs that your vehicle is overheating. Plus, we will explain what to do when your car overheats on the road.
Sierra Blanca Motors is Ruidoso’s leading automotive repair service center. If your vehicle overheats and you can’t find a solution, our experts can help diagnose the problem and troubleshoot it for you. We have years of experience dealing with vehicles with overheating issues, and our entire staff is capable of getting your vehicle back on the road.
How To Tell If My Car Is Overheating
There are many ways to tell if your vehicle is overheating. Here are some of the main indicators:
Check the Temperature Gauge
Every car comes with a temperature gauge in the dashboard. This tool lets you know the temperature of your vehicle. If the pin frequently is on the hot side of the meter, your car needs auto maintenance.
Steam
If any steam or smoke is coming out of the hood of your vehicle, your vehicle might be overheating. This steam is due to the rapid loss of coolant in your motor vehicle. Despite its name, coolant is scalding and causes temperatures to rise under your hood.
Test Your Acceleration
Are you having problems with acceleration? Acceleration issues have to do with your engine. If you notice any suspicious smells coming from your car engine, have a professional check it out. Your engine could be running too hot.
Steps To Take If Your Car Overheats
What can you do to resolve overheating issues efficiently? Here are some tips on what to do when your car overheats:
Turn Off the AC
When you first notice signs of your car overheating, you want to shut down anything running, including the air conditioner. Also, crack your windows to allow air to flow inside your vehicle. Your priority should be to put as little pressure on the engine as possible.
Turn on the Heater
If turning off the AC and opening the windows does not do the trick, try turning on your vehicle’s heater. By doing this, the heat will move from the engine to your vehicle.
Shift To Neutral
If your car overheats while you are in traffic, it can be daunting. In this situation, you should shift gears to neutral or park. After that, rev the engine a little to speed up your water pump. Speeding up your fan creates more cool air to relieve overheating.
Use Brakes Sparingly
One of the things that can heat your vehicle quickly is riding the brakes. You should use your brakes as minimally as possible when your vehicle is overheating. If you are in traffic, try rolling slowly and avoid slamming on your brakes. Allow as much space between you and the car in front of you for the best results.
Pull Over
If none of these tactics work, pull over to the right side of the road immediately. To ensure your vehicle returns to normal, open the hood and let it sit for a while. Never under any circumstance open the radiator cap. Plus, do not add water until your car is back to a suitable temperature.
Check the Thermostat
Once your vehicle cools down, try disconnecting and reconnecting the thermostat. Thermostats cause a lot of overheating problems. If it does not do the trick, contact a professional, like Sierra Blanca Motors, to inspect your vehicle.
Automotive Repair & Maintenance | Sierra Blanca Motors | Ruidoso, NM
You never want to guess what is causing your overheating problems. Have a professional check out your vehicle to accurately identify the root of the problem.
Sierra Blanca Motors proudly serves the Ruidoso, New Mexico community, with top-notch auto maintenance and auto repair services.
To see what we can do for you, contact us at (575) 315-0145. Our talented team can diagnose and help repair any vehicle problems you have.
