When your Chevy’s engine starts to overheat, it’s more than just an inconvenience — it’s a warning sign of potential engine damage. Knowing how to properly handle overheating in your Chevy car can protect your vehicle’s engine and prevent expensive repairs. Whether you drive a Chevy Malibu, Equinox, or Silverado, these steps will help you respond safely and avoid making the situation worse.
Step 1: Pull Over Immediately
At the first sign of overheating, such as a rising temperature gauge or steam escaping from under the hood, pull over to a safe area as soon as possible. Driving even a short distance with an overheated engine can lead to permanent damage, such as a blown head gasket or warped cylinder head.
Step 2: Turn Off the Engine and Let It Cool
Once safely stopped, turn off the engine to allow it to cool. Avoid opening the hood immediately — the coolant system is under pressure and could spray hot fluid, causing burns. Wait at least 20-30 minutes for the engine to cool down.
Step 3: Check Coolant Levels
When the engine is cool, locate the coolant reservoir. Most Chevy vehicles have a translucent reservoir with minimum and maximum level markings. If the coolant is low, top it off with the appropriate type of coolant (refer to your owner’s manual) or water if coolant isn’t available. This is only a temporary fix to help get your Chevy to a service center.
Step 4: Look for Visible Leaks
Examine the radiator, hoses, and water pump for signs of leaks, cracks, or drips. Leaking coolant is one of the most common causes of overheating in Chevy cars. You may also notice white or green puddles under your vehicle, depending on the type of coolant your Chevy uses.
Step 5: Restart and Monitor
After adding coolant, restart the engine and closely monitor the temperature gauge. If the needle starts to climb again within minutes, there could be a deeper issue, such as a stuck thermostat, broken radiator fan, or failing water pump. Driving further at this point could cause severe damage.
Step 6: Call for Assistance If Needed
If the engine continues to overheat after refilling the coolant or if you see smoke, call for roadside assistance or have your Chevy towed to a repair shop. Continuing to drive while overheating could destroy your engine, resulting in thousands of dollars in repairs.
Car Overheating
If your Chevy has experienced overheating, bring it to Sarchione Chevy of Randolph for expert diagnostics and repair. Our certified technicians can inspect the cooling system, pinpoint leaks, test components, and restore proper engine cooling. While you’re here, explore our new and pre-owned Chevy vehicles, from capable trucks to versatile SUVs.