Engine temperature warning light
The engine is too hot. Driving on can warp the cylinder head or blow the head gasket.
Stop soon Color: Red
Is it safe to drive?
No. Stop as soon as it is safe and check the car before you drive on.
Also called: Coolant temperature light, overheating light.
What to do
- Pull over when safe and switch the engine off.
- Never open the radiator cap on a hot engine: the coolant is under pressure and can burn you.
- When the engine is cool, check the coolant level in the overflow tank.
- Look for leaks under the car and a broken fan or belt. If the light comes back, have the car towed.
Symbols and their meaning can differ a little by make and model. Your owner's manual is the final word for your car.
Trouble codes often stored with this light
A scanner can read these codes. Each one points to a different cause:
Questions about the engine temperature warning light
What does the engine temperature warning light mean?
The engine is too hot. Driving on can warp the cylinder head or blow the head gasket.
Is it safe to drive with the engine temperature warning light on?
No. Stop as soon as it is safe and check the car before you drive on.
Does the engine temperature warning light look the same in every car?
Most makers use a similar symbol, but the drawing and the color can differ a little. Your owner's manual shows the exact symbol for your car.