Engine Temperature Warning
The engine is overheating. Continuing to drive can warp the cylinder head or blow the head gasket.
What it means
Coolant temperature has exceeded the safe limit. Overheating is one of the fastest ways to cause major engine damage — warped heads and blown head gaskets are common outcomes of 'just driving it a bit further.'
Can you keep driving?
No. Pull over, turn the engine off, and let it cool for at least 30 minutes before opening the hood. Never open the radiator or coolant cap while hot — scalding coolant can erupt under pressure.
What to do now
- 1
Pull over safely, switch the engine off, and open the hood from outside to help heat escape.
- 2
Turning the cabin heater to full hot while driving to the shoulder can shed a little engine heat.
- 3
After 30+ minutes of cooling, check the coolant reservoir level — top up if low (and only when cool).
- 4
If coolant is leaking or the light returns, have the car towed rather than risk engine damage.
Likely causes
- • Low coolant from a leak (hose, radiator, water pump, head gasket)
- • Failed thermostat stuck closed
- • Failed water pump
- • Cooling fan not working
- • Blocked radiator
Typical fix cost
$15–$40 for coolant; $150–$350 for a thermostat; $400–$800 for a water pump; $1,500+ for head gasket work
Ranges reflect mainstream US parts-and-labor pricing; your vehicle and region will vary.