Being stranded on the side of the road with an overheated engine is never any fun, but auto maintenance issues are often unpredictable. Should your engine temperature begin to climb, you can take steps to minimize any potential damage. Below, you’ll find a few important tips for dealing with this particular kind of auto trouble. 

How to Handle an Overheated Engine 

Take Steps to Reduce Engine Stress 

One of the best ways to ensure you make it to your auto maintenance provider before your engine gives up is by reducing its stress. Do so by turning your heater to the maximum setting, which will help keep the engine cool for a time. If you’re not in too much of a hurry, consider pulling over and turning off your vehicle for several minutes to allow it to cool down. Popping the hood while doing so will also let some of that excess heat escape.

Check Your Coolant Tank 

Running out of coolant is one of the leading causes of engine overheating, so if you’re experiencing any issues, check the coolant levels. The plastic coolant tank is located near the radiator, so inspect it to see if it needs to be topped off. When adding more engine coolant, it’s important to first wait until your engine has completely cooled. If there appears to be adequate coolant, you may have a mechanical issue that requires auto maintenance and repairs. 

Bring It to a Nearby Auto Repair Shop 

After you’ve let your engine rest a bit, it’s important to go directly to a reliable mechanic for services. Neglecting to do so can result in costly car repairs, like the need to replace your radiator or other integral engine components. Having a professional diagnose and fix any engine problems in a timely manner will let you get back behind the wheel ASAP. 

By adhering to the steps above, you can ensure that when your engine overheats, you’ll be able to minimize damage and make it to the repair shop. For more auto maintenance tips, contact Hillis 66 Service in Lincoln, NE. They’re the area’s one-stop shop for everything from new tires to brake repairs. Call them today at (402) 474-2891 to schedule a service appointment, or visit their website for a closer look at what they have to offer.