Car Overheating in Bismarck? What to Do When Your Engine Temperature Spikes

Bismarck has been experiencing consecutive days of temperatures reaching 100+ degrees, and if you've noticed your car's temperature gauge creeping up, you're not alone. Extreme heat puts serious stress on your vehicle's cooling system, and when that system can't keep up, your engine starts to overheat. At NDcarkey & Towing, we've seen a spike in overheating calls during this heat wave — here's what you need to know to protect your vehicle and what to do if your car overheats.

Why Cars Overheat in Extreme Heat

Your engine generates a lot of heat under normal conditions. When the outside temperature hits 100 degrees or higher for several days in a row, your cooling system has to work much harder to keep the engine at a safe temperature. Here's what typically causes overheating during a heat wave:

• Low coolant levels — the most common cause, especially in older vehicles

• Coolant leaks — hoses, radiators, and water pumps can crack or fail under heat stress

• Faulty thermostat — if it sticks closed, coolant can't circulate properly

• Radiator problems — clogged fins or a broken fan reduce cooling capacity

• Worn water pump — loses ability to circulate coolant efficiently

• Belt issues — a loose or broken serpentine belt can stop the water pump entirely

What to Do When Your Car Overheats

If your temperature gauge climbs into the red or you see steam coming from under the hood:

1. Pull over immediately — don't keep driving. An overheated engine can suffer permanent damage in minutes

2. Turn off the AC and turn on the heater — the heater pulls heat away from the engine

3. Turn off the engine and let it cool — wait at least 15-20 minutes before checking anything

4. Do NOT open the radiator cap while the engine is hot — pressurized coolant can cause serious burns

5. Check coolant levels once the engine is cool — if it's low, you may have a leak

6. If you can't drive safely, call us for 24 hour towing or roadside assistance at 701-516-0498 — we'll get you and your vehicle to safety

How to Prevent Your Car from Overheating

During extended heat waves like the one Bismarck is experiencing now, a few preventive steps can save you from a breakdown:

• Check your coolant level weekly — top it off if it's low

• Get a cooling system inspection — have a mechanic check hoses, belts, and the radiator

• Replace old coolant — coolant breaks down over time and loses effectiveness

• Check your radiator fan — make sure it kicks on when the engine gets hot

• Don't overload your vehicle — towing or heavy loads generate extra heat

• Park in the shade when possible — keeps the engine bay cooler between drives

When You Need Professional Help

If your car overheats on I-94, in downtown Bismarck, or anywhere in the metro area, NDcarkey & Towing is here to help. We provide emergency towing and roadside assistance throughout Bismarck, Mandan, and Lincoln — 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Don't risk driving an overheating vehicle and causing thousands of dollars in engine damage. Call us at 701-516-0498 and we'll get you to safety.

Stay Safe During the Heat Wave

With consecutive days of 100+ degree temperatures, your car isn't the only thing at risk — make sure you have water with you, especially if you're traveling outside the city. A breakdown in extreme heat can become dangerous quickly. Keep our number saved: 701-516-0498. NDcarkey & Towing — your 24/7 roadside partner in Bismarck, ND.