WASHINGTON — AAA is seeing a jump in distress calls from drivers with overheating cars. The combination of cars operating in record-breaking temperatures while their drivers crank the air conditioning only makes matters worse.
“Cars tend to overheat because of the stress … they are under,” said AAA spokesman John Townsend.
Just like a dehydrated body, he said a car gives its driver signs when it is overheating.
“In these extreme temperatures, parts of the vehicle won’t function properly,” Townsend added.
For example, the air conditioning won’t feel as cool, a car might be leaking red or green coolant and the temperature gauge will be getting a little too close to the red.
AAA has seen a five percent increase in distress calls from drivers in the last week as compared with last year, which Townsend attributed to the heat.
If drivers see the temperature warning light turn on, Townsend suggested they switch from cool to heat to draw air away from the engine and get to a place where they can turn the car off.
If not — “It’ll destroy the engine, or warp the heads on the engine. And you’re looking at a $2,000 to $3,000 repair,” Townsend said.
Drivers should read their owner’s manual to see exactly what to do if their car begins to overheat and where to check the antifreeze to ensure the car has the fluids it needs to operate in this heat.
