Car Overheating? Pull Over Now
If your temperature gauge is in the red, stop driving immediately. Here's what to do and how we can help.
Car Overheating
When that temperature needle goes into the red, you need to act fast. Continuing to drive can destroy your engine.
Immediate Actions
1. Pull Over Safely
As soon as it's safe, get off the road. Don't push it to the next exit or service station.
2. Turn Off the Engine
Let the car cool down. This takes time - at least 30 minutes.
3. Don't Open the Radiator Cap
The coolant is under pressure and extremely hot. Opening it can cause serious burns.
4. Look for Obvious Problems
- Steam or smoke from the engine bay
- Puddles of coolant under the car
- Burning smell
Common Causes
Low Coolant
Could be a slow leak you haven't noticed.
Broken Thermostat
Relatively cheap fix if caught early.
Failed Water Pump
More serious, but still repairable.
Head Gasket Failure
The expensive one. If you see white smoke from the exhaust or coolant mixing with oil, this might be it.
Blocked Radiator
Can happen with age or poor maintenance.
What We Do
If your car has overheated, don't try to drive it. Even if it seems to cool down, you don't know what damage might have been done.
Call 0800 422 055
We'll tow you to:
- Your regular mechanic
- A mechanic we recommend
- Your home (if you want to arrange repairs yourself)
The Cost of Ignoring It
An overheating repair caught early: Usually under $500
An engine replacement because you kept driving: $5,000-$15,000+
When in doubt, stop and call. It's always cheaper than an engine rebuild.
Real Example: Desert Road Overheat
Family towing caravan overheated on the Desert Road in summer. Temperature gauge maxed out, steam visible. Pulled over at the first safe spot.
Dispatched our nearest operator. Assessed as radiator issue - fan had failed. Arranged tow to Taupo for repairs. Caravan secured at safe location until they could return for it.
New radiator fan fitted in Taupo. Family back on holiday the next day. Returned for caravan on their way home.