Preventing Car Overheating in Summer: A Comprehensive Guide

The combination of extreme heat and intense driving conditions can push vehicle engines to their limits – especially in regions like the UAE where summer temperatures routinely soar above 45°C. Engine overheating isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a serious hazard that can lead to costly mechanical damage and even vehicle fires. In fact, UAE authorities reported 1,134 vehicle fires in 2022, with 71% of those involving passenger cars. Globally, road safety experts are sounding alarms as well – the World Health Organization (WHO) warns that climate change is making heatwaves more frequent and intense. This guide brings together expert insights, official statistics, and practical tips (for both UAE motorists and drivers worldwide) to help you understand why engines overheat, how to prevent it, and what to do if it happens.

Why Engine Overheating Is a Serious Issue

Overheating can strike quickly and with little warning, turning a routine drive into an emergency. Modern engines are designed to run at high temperatures, but only up to an optimal threshold (usually around 90°C). When that threshold is exceeded, metal parts can warp, lubricating oil breaks down, and the risk of catastrophic engine damage skyrockets. An overheated engine can even reach internal temperatures of 260°F (127°C) or more – heat intense enough to cause pistons to seize or gaskets to blow. If the driver doesn’t react in time, an overheating engine may stall on a highway or, worse, ignite a fire due to boiling fluids and melting components. UAE officials have highlighted this danger: according to a 2024 Ministry of Interior report, 43% of all vehicle fires were directly attributed to extreme summer heat. And during last year’s heatwave (when parts of the UAE hit a record 52°C), 2,189 car fires were reported in just Abu Dhabi and Dubai alone – underscoring how severe the consequences of overheating can be. In the United States, heat-related vehicle failures are also a major concern; the National Weather Service notes that extreme heat is the deadliest weather-related hazard in the country, and that includes its toll on vehicles and road safety.

Beyond the mechanical risks, an overheated car can put occupants in immediate danger. If steam or smoke is billowing from under the hood, visibility can be impaired and other drivers may not realize what’s happening. There’s also the threat of heatstroke if a breakdown leaves you stranded under the sun without air-conditioning. Health agencies emphasize that excessive heat can lead to organ failure or death if people (or pets) are trapped in a hot car. Tragically, children are especially vulnerable – vehicular heatstroke is the leading non-crash cause of child deaths in vehicles. In the US alone, 39 children died from being left in hot cars in 2024, a 35% jump from the prior year. These facts illustrate that preventing and managing overheating is not just about saving your engine; it can save lives too.

Heat and Vehicle Failures: What the Numbers Say

To truly appreciate the importance of summer engine care, consider these eye-opening statistics from authoritative sources:

• Spike in Breakdowns During Heatwaves: Automobile clubs report that breakdowns tend to spike on hot days. AAA (American Automobile Association) data shows that when temperatures hit triple digits (above ~38°C), calls for roadside assistance jump by about 10%, primarily due to overheating engines, tire blowouts, and dead batteries. In fact, each time the outside temperature climbs into the 90s Fahrenheit (~32°C), AAA experiences roughly a 20% increase in emergency calls for stranded vehicles. Extreme heat “takes a toll on vehicles,” as AAA experts put it, stressing cooling systems, tires, and batteries.
• UAE’s Summer Vehicle Fires: As mentioned earlier, UAE authorities have linked a significant share of vehicle fires to heat. Beyond the 43% figure for 2024, consider that poor maintenance is a leading cause of these incidents. RoadSafetyUAE, an advocacy group, notes that most vehicle fires stem from mechanical or electrical failures exacerbated by poor upkeep. This is why the Ministry of Interior and Civil Defence urge drivers to be vigilant with summer checkups – a message too many ignore. A survey found that 28% of UAE residents fail to have their cars inspected before summer, despite the extreme conditions. That oversight can be dangerous: “Summer vehicle maintenance is vital to preventing vehicle fires,” stresses Thomas Edelmann of RoadSafetyUAE.
• Driver Preparedness (or Lack Thereof): Another insight from the UAE survey is that some drivers aren’t sure how to react when their car shows signs of overheating. About 8% of drivers admit they don’t know what to do if the engine overheats, with young drivers (18–24) being the least confident. A small but worrying fraction even confessed they might panic and call emergency services (999) immediately, which isn’t the ideal first step. This highlights an education gap – one that campaigns and guides like this aim to fill.
• Interior Car Temperatures: Everyone knows a parked car can get hot, but the numbers are startling. According to research cited by the National Safety Council and NoHeatstroke.org, on a 27°C day (80°F), the interior of a car can heat up to 37°C (99°F) in just 10 minutes, and reach a deadly 43°C (109°F) within 20 minutes. On truly hot days (35°C+), the cabin can soar to over 50–60°C even with windows cracked. This is why it’s absolutely critical never to leave children or pets inside a parked car in summer – not even “for a few minutes.” Globally, authorities have run “Look Before You Lock” campaigns to prevent these tragedies. (The US NHTSA notes that over 1,000 children have died in hot cars in the past 25 years, all of them preventable.)

These statistics drive home two points: heat-related car problems are common – and often preventable with the right precautions. Next, we’ll explore why engines overheat in the first place and how you can reduce the risks.

Common Causes of Engine Overheating

Your car’s engine operates by burning fuel and creating friction, which generates power but also a lot of heat. The cooling system (radiator, coolant fluid, water pump, thermostat, fans, etc.) is tasked with regulating this heat, keeping the engine in its safe operating range (typically about 90°C). Overheating occurs when something disrupts this heat regulation, allowing temperature to climb unchecked. Some of the most common causes include:

• Low or Leaking Coolant: Insufficient coolant (antifreeze) is the number one culprit in overheating engines. A coolant leak – whether from a cracked radiator, a loose hose, or a failing gasket – means the system can’t hold pressure and circulate fluid effectively. Even a small leak can gradually drop coolant levels, and any coolant loss reduces the system’s ability to absorb and dissipate heat. Regularly checking coolant levels (and the ground under your parked car for drips) can catch leaks early. If you notice a sweet smell or see a colored puddle under the engine, get the cooling system inspected immediately.
• Faulty Thermostat: The thermostat is a valve that stays closed when the engine is cold (to help it warm up faster) and opens once normal operating temperature is reached, allowing coolant to flow. If the thermostat sticks shut or doesn’t open fully, it will block coolant flow. This leads to rapid overheating because the hot coolant is trapped in the engine. A telltale sign of a bad thermostat can be an engine that overheats quickly after startup or “thumping” noises as super-hot coolant hits cooler fluid in the radiator.
• Broken Water Pump: The water pump is like the heart of the cooling system – it circulates coolant through the engine block and radiator. If the pump’s impeller or drive belt fails, coolant won’t move as it should. A defective water pump often causes overheating at highway speeds (when the engine is working hard) or a rapid temperature spike accompanied by a warning light. Squealing noises or leaks near the pump location are warning signs. When a water pump fails, the engine can overheat within minutes since coolant flow essentially stops.
• Radiator Issues: The radiator’s job is to exchange heat from the coolant to the outside air. Any issue that reduces airflow or heat transfer can cause trouble. Common problems include clogged radiator cores (from corrosion or sediment, especially if coolant hasn’t been changed in a long time), external blockage (like debris, bugs, or sand clogging the fins), or malfunctioning radiator fans (on modern cars, electric fans that might fail to turn on). In desert climates like the UAE, radiators can also suffer from extreme ambient heat – when it’s 50°C outside, the radiator has a harder time shedding heat. Keeping the radiator clean (internally flushed and externally cleared of debris) is key to performance.
• Hoses and Belts: The rubber hoses that carry coolant and the belts that drive components (like the water pump or fan on some cars) are also critical. Over time, heat causes hoses to become brittle or develop cracks. A burst coolant hose will immediately dump coolant and lead to overheating. Likewise, a broken belt can halt the water pump. High under-hood temperatures in summer accelerate wear on these parts. This is why mechanics and road safety campaigns advise checking hoses for cracks or blisters and replacing old belts before the hottest months.
• Oil or Other Fluid Issues: Engine oil also plays a role in cooling – it reduces friction and carries away some heat. Old or very low oil can contribute to overheating. In fact, unusual “ticking” sounds from the engine may indicate poor lubrication due to degraded oil, which in turn can lead to more heat buildup. Additionally, using the wrong coolant mixture (too much water, not enough antifreeze) can lower the boiling point of the coolant and make overheating more likely. Always use the coolant type and mix ratio recommended by your vehicle manufacturer (typically a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and water, unless premixed coolant is used).

Other factors can include heavy engine load (towing or climbing hills in hot weather), AC overuse (running the air conditioning puts extra strain on the engine and cooling system), or even a stuck radiator cap that doesn’t maintain proper pressure. In rare cases, internal problems like a blown head gasket can both cause and result from overheating – a failing head gasket can leak combustion heat into the coolant or coolant into the engine, creating a vicious cycle of overheating.

Understanding these causes is important, because it also points to the solutions. In the next section, we’ll cover preventive measures and tips to help your car beat the heat.

Preventive Tips to Keep Your Car Cool

Staying ahead of overheating is largely about good maintenance and smart driving habits, especially during the summer. Both UAE authorities and international safety organizations have issued guidelines for motorists to summer-proof their vehicles. Here’s what you should do:

• Perform a Summer Check-Up: As simple as it sounds, many drivers skip it – to their peril. Before peak summer heat arrives, get your car inspected. Focus on the cooling system: have the radiator flushed if it’s due, pressure-test the system for leaks, and ensure the thermostat and water pump are in good condition. In the UAE, campaigns like Dubai’s “Summer Without Accidents” (run by the RTA in collaboration with the Ministry of Interior and Police) emphasize checking coolant levels, engine oil, belts, and hoses before long drives. This also aligns with U.S. recommendations; the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) advises that “you want your cooling system functioning at peak performance to avoid your engine overheating”, meaning coolant should be topped up and old coolant replaced on schedule. Remember, 28% of UAE drivers admitted they don’t do a summer service – simply not being in that 28% gives you a huge safety advantage.
• Regularly Check Fluids (Not Just Coolant): Coolant is crucial, but don’t forget engine oil (which helps cooling), transmission fluid, and even brake fluid. Low oil or old, thin oil makes the engine run hotter. Aim to keep oil at the proper level and follow the oil change intervals. Check coolant weekly during hot weather – when the engine is cold, the coolant reservoir should be between “min” and “max.” If you ever need to top off coolant, never open the radiator cap when the engine is hot (wait at least 40–60 minutes after shutting the engine off).
• Inspect Belts and Hoses: Look under the hood periodically for any sign of wear. Hoses should be firm (not rock-hard, but not squishy) and free of cracks or bulges. Pay attention to junctions where hoses connect, as leaks often start there (look for whitish or colored residue which could be dried coolant). Belts should not be frayed or cracked. If you see shiny or smooth patches on a belt, that could indicate slipping. As a rule of thumb, if a belt is over ~5 years old, consider replacing it before it snaps in the summer heat.
• Keep the Radiator and Grille Clean: Make sure nothing is blocking airflow to your radiator. Remove leaves, sand, or debris from the grille. Some drivers in hot climates even lightly hose off the front of the radiator (engine off, cool car) to clear out dirt. If your car has an auxiliary transmission cooler or intercooler (for turbo engines), keep those clean too. Proper airflow is the lifeblood of cooling at speed.
• Monitor the Temperature Gauge: This sounds obvious, but many people fail to notice the engine temperature until it’s too late. The moment you see the needle creeping above its normal midpoint (or an abnormal jump in a digital temperature readout), take action – turn off the AC and turn on the heater to draw heat away from the engine (it will get hot in the cabin, but can buy you time). If it continues to rise into the red zone, find a place to safely pull over. Never ignore an engine warning light or high temperature indicator, hoping it will go away on its own. Engines are robust, but only up to a point – beyond that, damage happens quickly.
• Mind Your Driving Habits: In extreme heat, try to take it a bit easier on your car. Avoid sustained high-speed driving or aggressive acceleration, especially if you notice the temperature gauge climbing. If you’re stuck in traffic and the temperature is rising, shift into neutral and gently rev the engine a bit – this can make the water pump and fan run faster to circulate coolant (provided your cooling system is functioning). Using a sunshade when parked and parking in shade whenever possible helps keep the entire car cooler, which means when you start up again, the engine and AC don’t have to overcome as much heat buildup.
• Tire Care (Yes, Tires Matter): It might surprise some, but tires can contribute to overheating issues indirectly. Underinflated tires generate more friction and heat on the road, raising the overall load on the car (and if a tire blows out, it can damage your car). The RTA notes that maintaining proper tire pressure and replacing old tires is especially important in summer to avoid blowouts. It’s good practice to check tire pressure monthly (and don’t forget the spare). This not only prevents tire failures but also helps fuel economy.
• Air Conditioning and Engine Load: Running the AC adds strain to the engine. If you notice the temperature climbing on a steep hill or in stop-and-go traffic, turn off the AC temporarily to lighten the load. It may make the cabin uncomfortable, but can help the engine cool down. Conversely, in an emergency overheating situation, turning the heater on full blast can dissipate heat from the engine into the cabin – effectively using the car’s interior heating system as a secondary radiator. This is a well-known trick: it’s uncomfortable, but it can prevent engine damage while you’re finding a safe spot to stop.
• Carry Emergency Supplies: Even with all precautions, breakdowns can still happen. It’s wise to carry a few bottles of water and coolant in your trunk during summer road trips. Water can be used in a pinch to top up a radiator (or for drinking, if you’re stuck waiting for help!). A basic toolkit, a flashlight, and a pair of heat-resistant gloves (for handling a hot hood or radiator cap) are also recommended. In the UAE, having a fire extinguisher in the vehicle is strongly advised and even mandated by some authorities as part of summer safety campaigns. A small ABC-rated car extinguisher can be a lifesaver if an engine fire starts.

What to Do If Your Car Starts Overheating

Even well-maintained cars can overheat under extreme conditions. Knowing how to react calmly and safely can mean the difference between a minor inconvenience and a ruined engine. Here’s a step-by-step action plan if you notice signs of overheating while driving:

1. Kill the A/C and Crank the Heat: As mentioned, the first move is to turn off the air conditioning (which takes a load off the engine) and turn your heater on high. This pulls heat away from the engine into the cabin. Yes, it will get uncomfortably hot for you, but this can sometimes reverse a temperature climb or at least slow it. Keep an eye on the temperature gauge – if it drops back to normal, you might avoid having to stop (though you should still get the car checked later).
2. Find a Safe Place to Pull Over: If the temperature continues rising into the red zone or you see steam, signal and pull over as soon as it’s safe – ideally into shade or off of the roadway. Driving any further with an overheating engine can cause irreversible damage. Do not keep driving to try to reach a service station if the engine is in the red; it’s better to stop and let things cool. As NHTSA recommends, get off the road, turn on hazard lights, and shut off the engine in a safe location.
3. Wait (and Watch) Before Opening the Hood: Once stopped, turn off the engine completely and remove the keys. It’s generally wise to wait a few minutes before even opening the hood. If there’s steam billowing, you risk a face full of hot coolant spray if something ruptures. Give it at least 5–10 minutes to cool down somewhat. Do not touch the radiator cap or any part of the cooling system while it’s hot – coolant in a pressurized system can be well above boiling point. Many experts say to wait until the temperature gauge needle falls back to normal or at least see if the steaming stops. This can take 30+ minutes in some cases. In the meantime, you can step out carefully (if safe from traffic) and visually inspect under the car for dripping coolant or other obvious signs.
4. Carefully Open the Hood: After initial cooling, pop the hood (using a cloth or gloves if the latch is hot). This helps heat escape faster. Be extremely cautious of any moving parts if the engine compartment is still hot. Opening the hood is mostly to ventilate – not to immediately start tinkering.
5. Check Coolant Level (Safely): Once you’re confident the engine has cooled a bit (again, ideally 30+ minutes if possible), you can check the coolant reservoir level. Do not open the radiator cap while the engine is very hot. If the coolant reservoir is clearly empty or very low, you likely found your culprit. In a pinch, if you have extra coolant or even plain water, you can slowly add some to the reservoir (not the radiator) to help bring the level up – but only add coolant to a warm engine if the engine is off and the car is no longer super-hot, and never add cold water to a hot engine block (it can crack the block). Many modern cars have opaque coolant overflow tanks that let you see the level without opening the system.
6. Look for Leaks or Broken Parts: While things cool, do a visual scan. Can you see any coolant leaking or spraying around hoses or the radiator? (Be careful – don’t put your face too close; you can often smell coolant, a sweet odor, if it’s leaking.) Also check if any hoses have burst or popped off. If a drive belt snapped, you might see flapping pieces of belt or notice that things like the alternator pulley aren’t spinning (though with engine off this is hard to tell). This quick assessment can guide your next steps. For example, a broken belt or large coolant leak means the car will not be driveable until fixed.
7. Decide on Next Steps: If the issue was minor (say, slightly low coolant) and after topping up and resting, the engine temp stays normal, you might attempt to carefully drive to the nearest mechanic (with the heater on and keeping speeds low). However, if you found a serious problem or the car overheated severely, it’s safer to call for help. Driving an overheating car “just a bit further” could be a fatal mistake for the engine. In the UAE, it’s wise to call your roadside assistance or the police if you’re stuck in a dangerous spot. In the US or elsewhere, call AAA or local roadside services. Remember, safety first – if you’re on a busy highway, it’s often safest to stay in your vehicle with seatbelt on, windows cracked, and wait for professional help rather than risking standing outside. Use your judgment based on the location.
8. Do Not Ignore the Aftermath: If your car overheated, even if you managed to get it running again, you must address the underlying cause before resuming normal driving. Engine overheating is not a one-time event to shrug off – it will likely happen again unless the root problem (leak, bad thermostat, etc.) is fixed. Continuing to drive an engine that has frequent overheating episodes can lead to warping of the cylinder head or engine block, which is an extremely expensive repair. So, get to a mechanic as soon as possible. If you’re in the UAE, take advantage of the summer check-up offers many dealers and service centers run (some are even free or discounted as part of safety campaigns). If you’re in a cooler climate and this happened, don’t assume it won’t recur – have the cooling system professionally inspected.

By following these steps, you can handle an overheating incident with the least risk to yourself and your vehicle. The key is to remain calm and not to panic – an overheating car can be scary, but usually it gives you some time (a rising gauge, maybe a warning light) before complete failure. Use that time wisely to get off the road safely.

Special Considerations: Passengers, Children, and Pets

We’ve focused on the engine and the vehicle, but it’s worth reiterating the human factor. Never leave passengers, especially children or animals, in a parked car in hot weather. The temperature inside can become fatal in minutes. Authorities worldwide, from the UAE’s Ministry of Interior to the US NHTSA, have issued dire warnings on this: even a window crack isn’t enough to keep the interior safe. If you see a child alone in a locked hot car, you should act fast and call emergency services – good Samaritan laws in many places will protect those who break a window to save a life. The statistic we mentioned bears repeating: a child’s body temperature rises 3–5 times faster than an adult’s, and heatstroke can be fatal at a core body temp of ~107°F (42°C). This can happen on days that aren’t even that hot. So while this tip isn’t about engine care, it is an essential summer car safety tip under the umbrella of overheating risks.

Additionally, for those driving in desert areas: carry extra water for passengers too. Dehydration can hit quickly if you’re stuck with a broken-down car awaiting rescue. In the UAE, motorists are often advised to keep sun protection (like hats or umbrellas) and water in their vehicles during summer travel – it’s part of personal safety in extreme heat conditions.

Conclusion: Be Proactive, Be Prepared

In the battle against summer heat, your best weapons are preparation and vigilance. Engine overheating is not inevitable, even in brutally hot climates. By maintaining your vehicle – checking coolant, replacing worn parts, and following official safety guidelines – you drastically reduce the chances of an overheating incident. The UAE’s “Safe Summer” and “Summer Without Accidents” campaigns, as well as international efforts by organizations like AAA and NHTSA, all hammer home the same message: most heat-related car troubles can be prevented with basic care.

At the same time, it’s wise to prepare for the worst-case scenario. Know the warning signs of overheating (temperature gauge creeping up, hood starting to steam, strange odors or sounds) and don’t hesitate to take action. As one AAA advisor put it, “overheated engines, tire blowouts and dead batteries” are common summer breakdown causes, but having an emergency kit and a plan can turn a potential disaster into a manageable delay.

In summary, treat your car well in the heat and it will take care of you. Top off those fluids, listen to what that temperature gauge is saying, and respect the power of Mother Nature in summer. With these steps, you can confidently hit the road – even under the Arabian sun or a sweltering summer sky – knowing you’ve stacked the odds in favor of a smooth, safe journey. Stay cool and safe driving!

Sources:

Here are the direct links to the official sources I referenced in the article:

• UAE Ministry of Interior & Traffic Department – Vehicle fire statistics & “Safe Summer” campaign
  https://u.ae/en/information-and-services/justice-safety-and-the-law/open-data (search under “Statistics on road accidents, fires and crime”) (IPCC, UAE Government Portal)
• RoadSafetyUAE – Survey on driver behaviour & maintenance during summer
  https://www.roadsafetyuae.com/vehicle-fire/ (Road Safety UAE)
• Dubai RTA – “Summer Without Accidents” campaign tips
  https://gulftoday.ae/news/2025/07/04/motorists-urged-to-perform-vehicle-checks-in-summer (Gulf Today)
• NHTSA (U.S. Dept of Transportation) – Heatstroke and summer driving safety
  https://www.nhtsa.gov/campaign/heatstroke (NHTSA)
  https://www.nhtsa.gov/summer-driving-tips (NHTSA)
• AAA – Heatwave breakdown statistics & advice
  https://www.cbsnews.com/story/aaa-heatwaves-breakdowns/ (cbsnews.com)
• WHO/WMO – Climate risks & heatwave impacts
  https://www.who.int/teams/social-determinants-of-health/safety-and-mobility/global-status-report-on-road-safety-2023 (World Health Organization)
• Cenex – Technical insights on engine overheating
  https://www.cenex.com/expert-advice-and-insights/overheating-car-engine (Cenex)