Car overheating often starts quietly. The temperature creeps up while you’re stuck in traffic, the fan kicks in, maybe a warning light flickers. A lot of drivers ignore it and hope it settles down.
In busy Kent towns and roads, overheating is one of the most common reasons cars end up needing recovery.
Why Overheating Happens in Traffic
When a car is moving slowly or sitting still, airflow drops. If anything in the cooling system isn’t working properly, the temperature rises fast.
Common causes include:
- low coolant levels
- cooling fan failure
- blocked radiators
- thermostat problems
- worn water pumps
- long periods of stop start driving
Once overheating starts, it usually doesn’t fix itself.
What To Do If Your Car Starts Overheating
If you notice the temperature rising:
- turn off air conditioning
- turn the heater on low if safe to do so
- pull over as soon as it’s safe
- switch the engine off
- do not open the bonnet straight away
Opening a hot cooling system can be dangerous.
Should You Keep Driving If the Temperature Drops?
This is where people get caught out. The temperature might drop once you stop, but that doesn’t mean the problem is gone.
You should not continue driving if:
- the temperature rises again
- warning lights stay on
- steam is visible
- the engine feels rough
Continuing to drive an overheating car can cause serious engine damage.
When Recovery Is the Safer Option
If overheating has already happened once, recovery is often the safer choice. Moving the car on a flatbed avoids further stress on the engine and cooling system.
Our breakdown recovery service covers overheating callouts across Kent:
https://redsrecovery.co.uk/breakdown-recovery/
How Overheating Can Lead to Sudden Breakdowns
Many cars that overheat end up cutting out later in the journey. The engine shuts down to protect itself, often in traffic. That situation catches drivers off guard and can be dangerous in busy areas.
When overheating leads to the engine cutting out completely, knowing how to react in that moment becomes critical.
Overheating is not something to ignore. If your car shows signs of overheating in traffic, stopping safely and getting help early can save you a lot of stress and money.
If you’re unsure what to do next, call Reds Recovery Services on 01634 926 801 and let us handle it properly.
FAQs – Car Overheating
Can I drive if my car overheats briefly?
It’s not recommended, as overheating often returns quickly.
Should I add water to the engine when it’s hot?
No, this can be dangerous and cause injury.
Does overheating always mean recovery is needed?
Not always, but recovery is often the safest option.
Can overheating cause the car to cut out?
Yes, engines may shut down to prevent damage.