Engine Overheating: Causes, Fixes & What to Do When It Happens

Engine Overheating: Causes, Symptoms, and What to Do in Different Situations

Few car issues cause as much panic as seeing your temperature gauge shoot up or steam billowing from under the hood. Engine overheating is a common issue in Dubai and across the UAE, where extreme heat and heavy traffic make vehicles more vulnerable. Understanding why engines overheat and how to respond in different situations can prevent serious — and expensive — engine damage.

What Causes an Engine Overheating to occur?

An engine runs efficiently only when its cooling system is working properly. Overheating usually happens when heat cannot escape from the engine fast enough. Common causes include:

Low Coolant Level: Often due to leaks in the radiator, water pump, or hoses.
Faulty Thermostat: Prevents coolant from circulating properly.
Radiator Issues: Blockages, leaks, or a broken radiator fan can limit cooling.
Water Pump Failure: Stops coolant from moving through the engine.
Coolant Contamination: Oil or debris in the coolant reduces its effectiveness.
External Factors: High ambient temperature, stop-and-go traffic, or towing heavy loads.

Warning Signs of Engine Overheating

Watch for these early indicators before the situation becomes critical:

Rising temperature gauge
Steam or smoke from under the hood
Unusual ticking or knocking noises
Loss of power or engine misfiring
Sweet or burnt smell (coolant or oil)

If you notice any of these, act immediately to prevent severe engine damage.

What to Do When Your Car Overheats

1. If You’re Driving and the Temperature Gauge Rises Slowly – But NOT on High or Maximum

Turn off the A/C to reduce engine load.
Turn on the heater to help draw heat away from the engine.
Pull over safely as soon as possible.
Do not turn off the engine immediately — let it idle for a few minutes to circulate coolant.

2. If You See Steam Coming from the Hood but Temperature Gauge not on High or Maximum

Pull over and stop immediately.
Do not open the radiator cap or coolant tank while the engine is hot — the pressurized steam can cause burns.
all for roadside assistance to take your car to the nearest car repair garage
If roadside assistance is not available – Wait at least 20–30 minutes before checking coolant levels.
Once cool, top up the coolant or add water temporarily if coolant isn’t available (for emergency use only).

3. If Coolant Is Leaking

You may notice a colored fluid (usually green, pink, or orange) under your car.
Avoid driving long distances — overheating can occur again quickly.
Drive slowly to the nearest car repair garage or call for roadside assistance.

4. If the Temperature Gauge is on High / Maximum or

Engine Light Turns On

A red or flashing temperature warning light means the engine is overheating.
Stop immediately.
Call for roadside assistance to take your car to the nearest car repair garage
Continuing to drive can cause a blown head gasket, warped cylinder head, or total engine failure.

After an Engine Overheating Incident: What to Check

Once your car cools down and reaches a safe place:

Check Coolant Level – Top up if low and look for visible leaks.
Inspect Belts and Hoses – Cracked or loose hoses can cause coolant loss.
Check Oil – Milky oil may indicate coolant mixing with oil (possible head gasket issue).
Visit a Professional Garage – Have your cooling system pressure-tested to detect leaks and verify thermostat and radiator fan operation.

How to Prevent Engine Overheating

Schedule regular coolant flushes (every 40,000–60,000 km).
Replace radiator caps and hoses when worn out.
Inspect coolant levels monthly.
Ensure the radiator fan and thermostat are functioning properly.
Use genuine coolant suitable for UAE temperatures — avoid mixing different types.

Need Help with Engine Overheating in Dubai?

If your car is running hot or you’ve experienced repeated overheating, visit Max Garage in Al Quoz. Our technicians specialize in engine cooling system diagnosis, radiator replacement, and coolant flushes for all makes and models — from Audi and BMW to Toyota and Nissan.

✅ Quick Inspection
✅ Genuine Parts & Coolant
✅ Engine Safety Check
✅ Professional Repair Guarantee