Volvo Auto Maintenance in Des Moines: Responding to an Overheated Engine

If you've never been in a vehicle that's overheated, here's what to watch for in Des Moines. First, you may notice a strange smell. You may also notice steam coming from your engine. This is when you may decide to check your gauges. Don't wait until your engine light indicates your engine is hot. If it smells hot and there’s steam, pull over. A wrong move now could result in serious injury or even more expensive auto repairs down the road. Before we discuss Volvo auto maintenance tips for how to avoid this from happening again, here’s what to do next.

Turn it Off

You may be tempted to try to make it to a nearby auto shop. Don’t. If you continue to drive your vehicle in this state, you can crack the engine block, resulting in an extremely expensive trip to the mechanic. Turn off your vehicle as soon as safely possible.

Cool it Down

There’s little you can do until your engine cools down. If it’s a hot day, it will take even longer. Opening the hood will speed the process, but do so carefully, because escaping steam can burn you. 

Open the Radiator Cap and Add Coolant

Once your vehicle is completely cool, open the radiator cap and add coolant. Since you don’t know why the engine overheated in the first place, take it in for auto maintenance at your earliest convenience. 

Need Volvo Auto Maintenance Assistance in Des Moines?

Now that you know how to respond to an overheated engine, discuss your situation with a professional. Contact the experienced team at Rempt Motor Company in Auburn to schedule a consultation today. We’ve served the Des Moines community for years. We’ll get to the bottom of the problem and address all your European auto repair and maintenance needs. 

Volvo Auto Maintenance Experts near Des Moines

Serving Federal Way, SeaTac, Des Moines, Edgewood, Milton, Normandy Park, Ravensdale, Maple Valley, Covington, Kent, Auburn, Lea Hill & Tukwila