Actions to take in an emergency

If the engine overheats

~2min read

If the temperature gauge indicates overheating, if you notice a loss of power, or if you hear a loud knocking or pinging noise, the engine may be overheating. In this case, do the following:

1. Pull off the road and stop as soon as it is safe to do so.

2. Shift the transmission to P (automatic transmission) or to a gear (manual transmission) and apply the parking brake. If the air conditioner is on, turn it off.

3. If engine coolant is leaking under the vehicle or smoke is coming from under the hood, turn off the engine. Wait until the coolant stops leaking and the smoke dissipates before opening the hood. If there is no coolant leak or smoke, keep the engine running and check whether the engine cooling fan is turning. If it is not turning, turn off the engine.

WARNING

When the engine is running, keep hands, clothing, and tools away from moving parts such as the cooling fan and drive belts to avoid serious injury.

4. Check the radiator and hoses and the area under the vehicle for signs of coolant leakage. (If the air conditioner was used, it is normal for cold water to drip when you stop.)

5. If engine coolant is leaking, turn off the engine immediately and contact an authorized HYUNDAI dealer.

WARNING

NEVER attempt to remove the radiator cap or drain plug while the engine and radiator are hot. Boiling coolant and steam may be expelled under pressure and cause serious injury.

Turn off the engine and wait until it cools down. Be extremely careful when removing the radiator cap. Wrap it with a thick cloth and carefully turn it counterclockwise to the first stop. Wait until the pressure is released from the cooling system. When you are sure all pressure has been released, press down on the cap with the cloth, then continue turning it counterclockwise to remove it.

6. If you cannot determine the cause of overheating, wait until the engine returns to normal temperature. If coolant has been lost, carefully add coolant up to the middle mark on the reservoir.

7. Drive carefully and watch for any signs of overheating. If the engine overheats again, it is recommended that you have the vehicle inspected by an authorized HYUNDAI dealer.

WARNING

  • Significant coolant loss indicates a leak in the cooling system. We recommend having the system inspected by an authorized HYUNDAI dealer.
  • If the engine has overheated due to a coolant level that is too low, adding coolant suddenly may cause it to crack. To avoid damage, add coolant slowly in small amounts.

Test yourself

A quick Hyundai Tucson quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.