Engine Temperature Warning Light

What it means

The engine coolant has gone above its safe temperature. Continuing to drive while overheating can blow the head gasket or warp the cylinder head, both of which are very costly repairs.

Symptoms5

• The red light comes on or the gauge reaches the red zone.
• Steam or white smoke from under the hood.
• A sweet smell like coolant.
• Reduced engine power or the air conditioning blowing warm.
• The coolant reservoir level drops noticeably.

Possible causes6

• Low coolant from a leaking hose or radiator.
• A failed radiator fan or fan relay.
• A thermostat stuck closed.
• A failed water pump.
• A radiator blocked internally or externally.
• A failed head gasket pushing combustion gases into the coolant.

How to diagnose and fix6

1. Pull over somewhere safe and switch off the engine immediately.
2. Never open the radiator or reservoir cap while hot, as pressurised coolant can cause severe burns.
3. Wait until the engine is fully cool, then check the coolant level.
4. Top up with the correct coolant if low and look for obvious leaks.
5. Confirm the radiator fan runs when the air conditioning is switched on.
6. If the temperature climbs again, have the car towed to a workshop.

Repair cost

In Saudi riyals; the highlighted part is the expected range for this fault.

Topping up coolant or replacing a thermostat or hose is relatively cheap, while head gasket or cylinder head damage is very expensive.

Prices are rough estimates for common cars at independent workshops and vary with the car and the source of the part.

Frequently asked questions