What Should You Do When a Car Radiator Boils Over?
3 Answers
When encountering a high-temperature warning, you should first slow down. Then pull over to the side of the road, but do not rush to turn off the engine. After discovering the boiling over, do not shut off the engine immediately. Instead, maintain idle speed temporarily and try to cool it down.
I've experienced the radiator boiling over several times. The first reaction is to immediately pull over and turn off the engine - never risk continuing to drive or the engine might be ruined. Never touch the radiator cap before the engine has completely cooled down, as the boiling steam is extremely dangerous and can cause serious burns. After cooling, carefully open the cap with gloves to check the coolant level. If it's low, add distilled water or the same type of coolant - this is fine as a temporary fix but avoid using tap water to prevent clogging. If it keeps boiling after refilling, the water pump might be broken or the radiator could be blocked, in which case you'll need to call a tow truck and have it professionally inspected. Regular maintenance checks on the cooling system are recommended, like checking fluid levels and ensuring the fan works properly before summer, which can prevent problems in advance.
For those who frequently drive long distances, a boiling radiator is usually caused by insufficient coolant or a faulty cooling fan leading to engine overheating. You must immediately pull over, turn off the engine, and find a safe place to let it cool down naturally—don't rush. After cooling, open the cap to check the fluid level; if it's low, top it up with distilled water. Avoid randomly adding different brands of coolant, as mixing them can cause more serious issues. If the problem recurs, the thermostat might be stuck or the radiator could be leaking—get it repaired immediately, or things might get worse next time. Also, inspect the surrounding pipes and seals for any damage to prevent minor issues from turning into major failures, ensuring hassle-free maintenance and safety.
