Can I still drive if the car's temperature gauge lights up?

[LeilaLynn]

You should not drive if the car's temperature gauge lights up. A lit temperature gauge indicates that the vehicle's engine is overheating, and continuing to drive may damage the engine's power system. The normal operating temperature range for a car's temperature gauge is between 70 to 90 degrees Celsius. Its function is to indicate the temperature of the coolant in the radiator while the engine is running. The engine requires a specific operating temperature to function properly; temperatures that are too high or too low can negatively affect the engine's performance and operation. Common causes of an overheating temperature gauge include: 1. Insufficient coolant due to low fluid levels or leaks; 2. Abnormal heat dissipation caused by a malfunctioning cooling fan; 3. Poor circulation and heat dissipation due to a faulty water pump; 4. Engine issues or failures in the cooling system.

[StKingston]

If the temperature gauge lights up, you absolutely must not continue driving. I've been driving for twenty years, and every time I see the temperature light flashing, my heart skips a beat. It means the engine is overheating, possibly due to low coolant, a faulty water pump, or a clogged radiator. If you stubbornly keep driving, the engine could seize, internal components might melt, and repair costs could easily exceed thousands, not to mention the risk of a safety accident. Immediately find a safe place to pull over, turn off the engine, and let it cool for about ten minutes. Then, briefly check the coolant reservoir level. Even if everything seems fine, don’t risk starting the engine—it’s best to call a tow truck and have it taken to a repair shop. Only a professional mechanic can fully resolve the issue. Preventive measures are also crucial: regularly inspect the cooling system and fan to avoid breakdowns during long-distance drives.

[McWalter]

Don't hesitate when the coolant temperature warning light comes on - pulling over immediately is the safest move. As someone who frequently helps friends with car repairs, I've seen too many cases where people stubbornly kept driving and ended up with a seized engine. High coolant temperature usually stems from coolant leaks, a stuck thermostat, or a failed cooling fan - all of which cause rapid engine overheating. Continuing to drive risks either expensive engine damage (at best) or being stranded on highways with doubled accident risks (at worst). After stopping, wait 10-15 minutes before restarting to allow cooling. Check the radiator fluid level but avoid DIY tinkering if untrained - when in doubt, always prioritize safety by calling professionals.

[FrankFitz]

I just started driving not long ago, and the first time the temperature warning light came on, I almost panicked, but stopping the engine immediately was the right move. The temperature gauge lighting up indicates the engine is overheating, which could be due to insufficient coolant or a broken fan. Continuing to drive at this point could lead to engine seizure or complete failure, which is very dangerous. Find a safe spot to pull over and turn off the engine, then wait a few minutes for it to cool down. You can try checking the radiator, but if you're unsure about the problem, it's best to call someone knowledgeable about cars or roadside assistance rather than risking it by driving further.