You can open the bonnet once safely stopped if it is sensible to do so, but never remove a hot coolant cap. A pressurised cooling system can release scalding liquid.
Switch off and let the car cool
If the temperature warning is serious, continuing to drive can damage the engine. Stop safely and seek advice.
Do not pour cold water blindly into a hot engine
Sudden temperature changes and pressurised systems make improvised fixes risky. Follow the handbook.
Look without touching
Steam, obvious leaks or a broken belt can be useful information for recovery staff. Keep hands away from fans and moving parts.
Overheating from mechanical failure is normally not what car insurance is designed for. Breakdown cover and maintenance are the relevant protections in most cases.
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