What to Do When the Car Temperature Gauge Lights Up?
2 Answers
Solutions for when the car temperature gauge lights up: 1. When the temperature warning light comes on, stop the car for inspection—note that stopping does not mean turning off the engine. Keep the engine running at idle to allow heat dissipation with the hood open. 2. After stopping, first check if the coolant level in the auxiliary tank is too low. Open the engine hood to inspect the coolant level in the auxiliary tank. If the coolant level is below the min line, it indicates insufficient coolant, and you should add more. 3. The water pump in the cooling system is typically driven by the engine. Turning off the engine will also stop the water pump, preventing the coolant from circulating. At this point, various engine components remain at high temperatures. Without effective cooling, the engine could sustain damage.
When the temperature warning light came on while driving, I immediately realized the engine was overheating. I quickly found a safe place to pull over, turned off the engine, and let it cool down. Don't rush to check right away—wait a few minutes for the heat to dissipate. After opening the hood, I checked the coolant reservoir. If the level was too low or dry, it might indicate a leak or water pump failure; a non-functioning fan is also a common issue, especially in hot weather. In such cases, never force the car to keep running, as it could cause severe engine damage. I recommend using your phone to search for nearby repair shops and calling a tow truck for a proper inspection. For prevention, I make it a habit to check the coolant color and level monthly. If it appears cloudy, I replace it promptly to avoid clogging the system. During long-distance drives, maintaining a steady speed also helps reduce overheating risks.
