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Engine temperature light: what it means
The red thermometer symbol (sometimes in wavy lines) means your engine is overheating. An overheating engine can warp the cylinder head and damage the head gasket, which can be very expensive to fix.
Is it safe to drive?
Stop driving. Pull over as soon as it's safe and turn the engine off. Don't keep driving to "make it home".
What to do right now
- Pull over safely and switch the engine off.
- Never open the radiator cap while the engine is hot. Hot coolant can spray out and burn you.
- Let the engine cool down fully before checking anything.
- Check the coolant level in the overflow bottle. If it's low, top up with coolant (or water in an emergency).
- If you've lost a lot of coolant or the light comes straight back on, don't drive it. Call us.
Common causes
- Low coolant from a leak (hoses, radiator, water pump)
- Stuck thermostat
- Failing water pump
- Radiator fan not working
- Blocked or damaged radiator
- Head gasket problem
Blue temperature light?
In many cars, a blue thermometer just means the engine is still cold. It goes off once the engine warms up, so there's nothing to worry about.
How we fix it
We pressure-test the cooling system to find leaks and check the thermostat, water pump, fan and radiator. You'll get the exact cause and price before any work starts.
Coolant flush: from $150 + GST.
Common questions
Can I drive with the temperature light on?
No. Pull over, switch off and let the engine cool. Driving an overheating engine can cause serious, expensive engine damage.
Can I use water instead of coolant?
In an emergency, water will get you to a workshop. But coolant protects against corrosion and overheating, so get the system flushed and refilled with proper coolant soon after.
My temperature gauge is high but there's no light. Is that OK?
No. If the gauge is going towards H, treat it the same as the warning light. Pull over and let it cool.
Light on? We can check it for you.
Greasy Hands, 48c Diana Drive, Wairau Valley. Open Wednesday to Sunday, 9am to 6pm.
Book a check online or call 09 440 9969.
This is general guidance only. Every car is different, so always check your owner's manual. If you're not sure, stop somewhere safe and call us on 09 440 9969.