What to Do If Your Car Overheats

We’ve all seen it—or lived it. You're cruising along Merrick Road, and suddenly your dashboard lights up. The temperature gauge spikes. Maybe you see steam coming from under the hood.

Your heart starts racing. “What do I do now?”

At Dr. Jack’s Auto Repair, we’ve helped plenty of drivers through that exact moment. If your car’s overheating, don’t panic—but don’t ignore it either. Here’s what to do (and how we can help prevent it from happening again).

First: Pull Over Safely

If you see steam or your temperature gauge is red-lining:

1. Turn off the A/C and crank the heat. It sounds weird, but this helps draw heat away from the engine.
2. Find a safe spot to pull over, turn off the engine, and pop the hood (but don’t open the radiator cap—it’s under pressure and can cause serious burns).
3. Wait at least 15–30 minutes before checking coolant levels. Add coolant or water only if you know how—and only once the engine has cooled.

If you’re not sure what to do, call a tow. We’d rather you be safe than risk damage.

Why Cars Overheat (And What It Might Mean)

Overheating doesn’t just happen—your car is trying to tell you something. Some common reasons include:

• Low coolant levels – Could be due to a leak or evaporation over time
• Broken thermostat – Prevents coolant from flowing when it should
• Radiator problems – Clogs, cracks, or corrosion
• Cooling fan failure – Especially important during stop-and-go traffic
• Water pump issues – If this fails, the coolant can’t circulate
• Blown head gasket – A serious issue, often with white smoke or milky oil

Sometimes it’s a small fix. Other times, ignoring it can lead to major engine damage.

How We Can Help at Dr. Jack’s

If your car has overheated—or even come close—it’s important to get it checked out ASAP. We’ll run a full inspection and diagnose the root cause, not just top off fluids and send you on your way.

We offer:

• Coolant system pressure tests
• Thermostat and fan diagnostics
• Radiator flush and replacement
• Full engine diagnostics if damage is suspected
• Free diagnostics upon request for TPMS, oil life, brake pad life, and check engine lights

We’ve helped Merrick and Nassau County drivers stay safe and cool since 1976. If your car overheats, we’d like to help you too.

A Real Story from the Shop

Last summer, a local driver from Wantagh came in after their SUV overheated on the Meadowbrook. They waited a bit too long—and what could’ve been a simple coolant leak turned into a warped head gasket.

That’s why we say: Don’t wait. Let’s catch it early. It could save your engine—and your wallet.

Don’t Sweat It. We’ve Got You.

If your car overheats or starts showing signs, let’s figure it out—together.

📍 Visit Dr. Jack’s Auto Repair, - 57 Brooklyn Ave, Merrick, NY 11566
📞 Call us at (516) 785-1444

🔧 Schedule your appointment, we’ll help keep you cool—and your car even cooler.