VEHICLE CARE 269If Steam Is Coming from theEngine Compartment{ WarningSteam and scalding liquids from ahot cooling system are underpressure. Turning the pressure cap,even a little, can cause them tocome out at high speed and youcould be burned. Never turn the capwhen the cooling system, includingthe pressure cap, is hot. Wait forthe cooling system and pressurecap to cool.If Steam Is Coming from theEngine Compartment with NoOverheat Warning(V-Series Only)The V-Series hood vent is functional,and will allow water from rain and carwashes to enter the enginecompartment and contact hotsurfaces. If steam is seen coming fromthe hood vent with no accompanyingoverheat warning, no action isrequired.If No Steam Is Coming from theEngine CompartmentIf an engine overheat warning isdisplayed but no steam can be seen orheard, the problem may not be tooserious. Sometimes the engine can geta little too hot when the vehicle:. Climbs a long hill on a hot day.. Stops after high-speed driving.. Idles for long periods in traffic.If the overheat warning is displayedwith no sign of steam:1. Turn the air conditioning off.2. Turn the heater on to the highesttemperature and to the highestfan speed. Open the windows asnecessary.3. When it is safe to do so, pull offthe road, shift to P (Park) orN (Neutral) for an automatictransmission or Neutral for amanual transmission, and let theengine idle.If the engine coolant temperaturegauge is no longer in the overheatedarea or the engine coolanttemperature warning light no longerdisplays, the vehicle can be driven.Continue to drive the vehicle slowlyfor about 10 minutes. Keep a safedistance from the vehicle in front.If the warning does not come back on,continue to drive normally and havethe cooling system checked for properfill and function.If the warning continues, pull over,stop, and park the vehicle right away.If there is no sign of steam, idle theengine for three minutes while parked.If the warning is still displayed, turnoff the engine until it cools down.Washer FluidWhat to UseWhen windshield washer fluid isneeded, be sure to read themanufacturer's instructions beforeuse. If operating the vehicle in an areawhere the temperature may fall belowfreezing, use a fluid that has sufficientprotection against freezing.
