Can the car still be driven after the radiator boils and cools down?

[JeremiahDella]

After the car radiator boils and cools down, it can be driven for a short distance, but it is recommended to drive at low speed to a service center for repair. The following are the hazards of radiator boiling: 1. Damage to the electric fan: If there are issues such as a damaged thermostat, malfunctioning electric fan, or insufficient coolant in the radiator within the cooling system, the coolant in the radiator cannot be cooled, leading to an increase in water temperature. 2. Disruption of normal clearances between parts: The inability to maintain normal oil films between parts can cause minor issues like engine cylinder or bearing wear, and in severe cases, it may lead to complete engine damage or even scrapping.

[LeLiam]

Last time I went on a long-distance trip, I encountered the radiator boiling over, which really scared me. After the car completely cooled down, I checked the water level and added some purified water before daring to drive slowly to the repair shop. The mechanic said I was lucky—if the engine had seized, it would have cost me several thousand dollars. Even if the temperature gauge returns to normal after boiling, there might be air trapped in the cooling system, posing a high risk of internal engine component deformation. He advised against risking long-distance driving and suggested moving no more than 3-5 kilometers in an emergency. Thinking about it now still gives me chills—high temperatures cause irreversible damage to aluminum alloy engine blocks, and the repair costs could be half the price of a used car.

[LaCarlos]

Can you drive a car after the radiator boils over? It depends, but I don't recommend it. Once I helped a friend with an overheated car. After it cooled down, we found the fan was broken. We barely made it to a nearby repair shop, but the car almost boiled over again on the way and nearly caught fire. Now I've learned my lesson—when the radiator boils over, you must first check the cause: is it a leaking water pump, a stuck thermostat, or a clogged radiator? After the cooling system is restored, you can start the engine, but only maintain a speed below 30 mph, turn on the heater to help dissipate heat, and never drive more than five miles. Finally, a reminder: never open the radiator cap hastily, as steam burns are much worse than boiling water.

[EverettMarie]

I never touch a car that's been driven after overheating. My old Jetta's engine was completely ruined after continuing to drive it post-overheating. When the repair shop opened it up, they found the cylinder head warped, seals failed, and pistons scored. Later, chatting with the mechanic, I learned that when coolant boils, engine temps exceed 130°C - aluminum components become like overcooked noodles. Now if a car overheats, I immediately call a tow truck. Saving a couple hundred bucks on towing only to pay tens of thousands in repairs would be ridiculous. If I absolutely must drive it, I'll only crawl at turtle speed on deserted roads with two big buckets of water ready for emergency cooling stops.