Engine Overheating – What to Do? Causes, Symptoms & Solutions

An overheated engine is one of the situations that drivers least want to experience—but it happens more often than you might think. Whether on the highway, in city traffic, or in summer traffic jams, when the “engine overheating” error message suddenly appears, quick action is required. Knowing the symptoms, understanding the causes, and knowing how to react in an emergency can prevent costly damage to your vehicle.
In this guide, you will learn why an engine overheats, what the typical signs are, and what step-by-step measures you should take.

Why Does an Engine Overheat in the First Place?

A combustion engine generates enormous heat, which is regulated by the cooling system. If this system does not function properly, the temperature quickly rises to dangerous levels. Typical causes:

• Insufficient coolant or leaky hoses
• Defective thermostat (regulates the cooling circuit)
• Broken water pump that no longer allows the coolant to circulate properly
• Clogged radiator or dirty cooling fins
• Defective radiator fan that does not switch on
• Problems in the cylinder head (e.g., cracks or defective gasket)

Typical Symptoms of an Overheated Engine

How can you tell if the engine is overheating? Look out for these warning signs:

• Warning light/error message “Engine overheating” in the cockpit
• Rising needle on the coolant temperature gauge
• Loss of power, engine no longer pulling properly
• Heater not working because circulation in the cooling system is disrupted
• Steam or smoke coming from the engine compartment
• Unusual smells of hot metal or coolant

If any of these signs occur, react immediately!

Engine Overheating – What to Do? Step-by-Step Instructions

When the engine gets too hot, every minute counts. Follow these steps to respond correctly:

1. Take warning signs seriously
Rising temperature gauge, “Engine overheating” warning light, loss of power, or steam coming from the engine compartment.
2. Stop immediately
Pull over to the right, turn off the engine, and turn on the hazard warning lights.
3. Allow to cool down
Keep the hood closed and wait at least 15–30 minutes until the engine has cooled down significantly.
4. Check the coolant
Only open the reservoir cap when it is cold. Carefully top up the coolant if necessary. Never pour cold water into a hot engine!
5. Check the cause
Check visible hoses, radiator, and fan for damage or leaks.
6. Make a decision
✅ If the cause is clear and has been fixed → continue driving carefully.
❌ If the cause is unclear or the temperature rises again → call a tow truck.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What happens if the engine overheats?
→ The extreme heat can damage the head gasket, cylinder head, or pistons. This often leads to expensive repairs or even engine failure.
 

Why does my engine overheat despite having coolant?
→ Possible causes: defective water pump, thermostat, or radiator fan. Air in the cooling system can also prevent the fluid from circulating.
 

Why does my engine overheat after a short time?
→ This often indicates a defective thermostat or blocked circulation.
 

At what temperature does the engine overheat?
→ Most engines run optimally at 90 °C. From 110–120 °C, we refer to this as overheating.
 

Why does my engine overheat and my heater not work?
→ If no warm air comes out of the heater, the coolant is often no longer circulating properly – frequently a sign of a defective water pump or air in the system.

Conclusion – How to Respond Correctly

If the engine overheats, it is crucial to act quickly and correctly. Continuing to drive is almost always the worst solution, as the damage can be severe. Check the coolant, thermostat, and fan regularly to avoid problems early on.
If you want to buy a used car – for example, through our car auction – you should pay particular attention to the condition of the cooling system. This is especially true for older or damaged vehicles. As a Copart member, you also have the opportunity to view vehicles that have caught your interest in person at our locations.