With summer approaching, it’s a good idea to remain vigilant about the possibility of your engine overheating. It’s a more common problem in the summer, but you should know how to handle this concern at any time of the year. Here’s what to do when your diesel engine overheats to minimize damage to your vehicle and keep yourself safe.
Pull Over
Getting off the road as soon as possible is the first thing you should do when you notice your diesel engine is overheating. Continuing to drive with a hot engine dramatically increases the chances of you getting in an accident. After pulling over, open the hood to cool down the engine with the fresh air.
Check the Coolant Level
One of the most common causes of an overheating engine is insufficient coolant. So, check the coolant level to see if that’s causing the problem. Never remove the radiator cap on a hot engine, as that may cause scorching coolant to spray out and burn you. If your engine is low on coolant, you should top it off and see if things start to cool down. A lack of fluids leads to your vehicle showing symptoms of a worn-out diesel engine, so you’ll want to keep everything filled up.
Check for Leaks
Check for any leaks around your vehicle’s coolant system when your diesel engine overheats. If you notice any signs of leaking coolant, then topping it off may not be the helpful fix it needs. If everything seems to be in good shape, you can make a judgment call. You can attempt driving again if your engine seems to be cooling down. However, if you find any problems or your engine quickly overheats again, then it may be smart to call a tow to a nearby mechanic who can handle the situation.
