If The Engine Overheats (Petrol Models) - Honda Civic Owner's Manual

06/08/05 22:44:51 32SMG610_464
The pointer of the vehicle's
temperature gauge should stay in
the midrange. If it climbs to the red
mark, you should determine the
reason (hot day, driving up a steep
hill, etc.).
If your vehicle overheats, you should
take immediate action. The only
indication may be the temperature
gauge climbing to or above the red
mark. Or you may see steam or
spray coming from under the bonnet.
Driving with the temperature gauge
pointer at the red mark can cause
serious damage to your engine.

If the Engine Overheats (Petrol models)

Steam and spray from an
overheated engine can
seriously scald you.
Do not open the bonnet if
steam is coming out.
1. Safely pull to the side of the road.
Put the transmission in neutral,
and set the parking brake. Turn
off the all accessories, and turn on
the hazard warning indicators.
2. If you see steam and/or spray
coming from under the bonnet,
turn off the engine. Wait until you
see no more signs of steam or
spray, then open the bonnet.
3. If you do not see steam or spray,
leave the engine running, and
watch the temperature gauge. If
the high heat is due to overloading,
the engine should start to cool
down almost immediately. If it
does, wait until the temperature
gauge comes down to the midpoint,
then continue driving.
4. If the temperature gauge stays at
the red mark, turn off the engine.
5. Look for any obvious coolant leaks,
such as a split radiator hose.
Everything is still extremely hot,
so use caution. If you find a leak, it
must be repaired before you
continue driving (see Emergency
Towing on page 480 ).
CONTINUED
Taking Care of the Unexpected
461