Engine OverheatingStop driving — address now

A temperature gauge in the red or steam from the hood is a pull-over-now situation. Minutes of driving an overheating engine can mean a warped head or blown head gasket — the difference between a cooling repair and an engine job.

Most likely causes

1. Coolant leak — Radiator, hoses, water pump, or heater core — low coolant is the most common overheat cause.
2. Failed thermostat — Stuck closed, it blocks coolant flow entirely; overheating comes on fast.
3. Failing water pump — No circulation means no cooling, often with a whining noise or leak first.
4. Radiator or cooling fan failure — Overheating mainly in traffic or at idle points at the fans.

What to do

Pull over, shut it off, and let it cool — never open a hot radiator cap. If coolant is visibly low and you must move the car, short cool-engine hops only. This one is worth the tow; heat damage compounds by the minute.

What the repair typically costs

Related services in Florida typically run $90–$7,500 depending on what the diagnosis finds:

Engine diagnostic	$90–$200
Spark plug replacement	$100–$300
Timing belt replacement	$500–$1,100
Head gasket repair	$1,000–$2,500
Engine rebuild	$2,500–$5,000
Engine replacement	$3,000–$7,500

See the full engine repair cost guide →

Find a engine repair shop near you

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Common questions