Urgency: Critical
Coolant Temperature Warning Light
Stop safely as soon as possible. Continuing to drive risks serious damage or a safety hazard.
What the Coolant Temperature Warning Light Means
The coolant temperature light on a your car warns the engine is overheating. Excess heat warps and cracks components fast, so this red symbol is a genuine stop-and-cool-down situation, not a suggestion.
Common Causes
- Low coolant level
- Failed thermostat
- Faulty water pump
- Cooling fan not running
- Leaking hose or radiator
How to Fix It
- Pull over safely and turn off the engine to let it cool
- Never open the radiator cap while hot
- Once cool, check the coolant reservoir level
- Look for obvious leaks or a stopped cooling fan
- Top up coolant and have the thermostat, pump and fan checked
Related DTC Codes
| Code | Meaning |
|---|---|
P0128 | Coolant Thermostat Below Regulating Temperature The engine is not reaching normal operating temperature, usually a stuck-open thermostat. |
P0217 | Engine Coolant Over Temperature The engine has exceeded safe coolant temperature, risking serious internal damage. |