What to Do When Your Car Overheats on an Austin Highway
By the Auto Repair Home service team· Reviewed by an ASE-certified technician· Updated October 2026· 2 min read
The short answer
If your car overheats, turn the A/C off, turn the heater on full, pull over safely and shut the engine off. Never open a hot radiator cap. Call for help rather than driving on — overheating can blow a head gasket within minutes.
Why cars overheat in Central Texas
Low coolant from leaks, failed water pumps, stuck thermostats, cooling fans that quit and clogged radiators — all made worse by 100°F days and stop-and-go traffic.
What not to do
Don't pour cold water into a hot engine and don't keep driving with the gauge in the red.
Repair costs
Thermostat $150–$350, water pump $400–$900, radiator $450–$1,200, head gasket $1,500–$3,000.
