If the engine overheats
If the coolant temperature gauge needle is in the overheat zone, you experience a loss of engine power, or you hear loud hissing or knocking, the engine may be overheating. In this case, perform the following actions:
– pull off the road and stop the vehicle in a safe place;
– move the selector to the "P" (Park) position (automatic transmission) or move the gear shift lever to neutral and apply the parking brake. If the air conditioner is operating, turn it off;
– if coolant is leaking from under the vehicle or steam is coming from under the hood, turn off the engine. Do not open the hood until coolant stops leaking from under the vehicle or steam stops coming from under the hood. If there are no visible signs of coolant leakage or steam, do not turn off the engine, and make sure the cooling fan is operating. If it is not operating, turn off the engine;
– check the condition and tension of the water pump drive belt. If the belt is in good condition, check the radiator, cooling system hoses, and the area under the vehicle for coolant leaks. (If the air conditioner was on, cold water may drip from it after the engine is stopped – this is normal);
While the engine is running, keep hands, long hair, and clothing away from moving parts such as the cooling fan and drive belts to avoid injury.
– if the drive belt or water pump is faulty, or there is a coolant leak, stop the engine immediately and seek assistance from the nearest authorized Hyundai dealer;
Do not open the radiator cap while the engine is hot. Boiling coolant may spray out and you may be scalded.
– if you cannot determine the cause of overheating, wait until the engine coolant temperature returns to normal. If coolant has leaked, carefully remove the radiator cap and add water up to the half-full mark on the reservoir tank;
– carefully monitor for further signs of overheating. If the engine overheats again, seek assistance from an authorized Hyundai dealer.
A significant drop in coolant level indicates a leak in the cooling system. Have the system inspected by an authorized Hyundai dealer as soon as possible.
Test yourself
A quick Hyundai Accent quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.